Fire Chief's Statement Concerning Guilty Plea in Arson Case

The Prince George’s County Fire/Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Department was made aware earlier today that a former member plead guilty to second degree arson in connection with a fire that occurred in March 2008. The press release from the States Attorney Office is listed below.


Prince George’s County Fire Chief Eugene A. Jones stated,

“As the Fire Chief of this Department, I fully support the work of the States Attorney’s Office in reaching a guilty plea in this case of arson. I commend their staff as well as the Fire/EMS Department’s Fire Investigators for their due diligence in compiling evidence and building the case. I also want to acknowledge the volunteer leadership of the Riverdale Fire/EMS Station for their support and cooperation during this difficult period.

To the citizens and residents of Prince George’s County; this heinous act is a result of the actions of individuals and should not be a systemic assessment of our Department. Our combination, volunteer and career, Fire/EMS Department strives to provide the very best in fire and emergency medical services possible and are dedicated and committed to keeping our County safe from the perils of all hazards.


One person has been deemed guilty for his actions and a second person is soon to have his day in court. “


Office of the State’s Attorney for Prince George's County

Glenn F. Ivey

14735 Main Street, Suite M3403, Upper Marlboro, Maryland 20772

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 22, 2010

Contact: Ramón V. Korionoff 301-952-3675

240-832-6111 rvkorionoff@co.pg.md.us or

FIREFIGHTER PLEADS GUILTY TO ARSON COUNT






UPPER MARLBORO, MD – Prince George’s County State’s Attorney, Glenn F. Ivey announced today that volunteer firefighter, Jerome Engle*, 46, of Bowie, pleaded guilty to second degree arson in connection with setting fire to a building located at 5413 Riverdale Road, Riverdale, MD on March 17, 2008.


Mr. Engle was a firefighter with the Riverdale Volunteer Fire Department.


As part of the plea agreement Engle faces up to 10 years in prison but could receive the guideline recommendation from the sentencing commission of 1 year in jail. The State’s Attorney will seek $200,000 restitution from Mr. Engle on behalf of the property owners.


“We expect our firefighters to battle blazes not burn buildings. Mr. Engle not only violated the public trust but also put property and people at risk. We are holding him accountable with today’s conviction,” said Glenn F. Ivey.


A sentencing and restitution hearing is set for July 1, 2010 in front of Judge Graydon McKee who oversaw today’s proceedings.


The co-defendant in the case James R. Martinez of Damascus is set for trial on July 22.


Investigation of this and similar incidents is on-going; anyone with information should contact the Prince George’s County Fire Department at 301-77ARSON.


For more information, please contact Ramon V. Korionoff in the Office of the State’s Attorney.






*Photo available upon request.

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