Unrequited Romeo pleads not guilty to arson

FAYETTEVILLE -- A man police say set fire to his home in a case of unrequited love pleaded not guilty to several charges Wednesday in Washington County Circuit Court.

Victorio Valdez-Rodriguez, 36, of 2842 Granny Smith Ave. in Springdale pleaded not guilty to arson, third-degree domestic battery, interference with emergency communications and false imprisonment. He was given a Dec. 17 trial date.

Valdez-Rodriguez was arrested Aug. 30 after a policeman seeking to question Valdez-Rodriguez about an alleged incident at his home saw black smoke coming from the roof. The officer could hear fire alarms, according to a police report.

The policeman kicked open the door and found Valdez-Rodriguez. He was the only person in the home.

A woman told police Valdez-Rodriguez was dating her mother, but came into her room that morning and "confessed his love," according to the police report.

The woman became upset and demanded he leave, according to the police report. When she tried to leave, Valdez-Rodriguez grabbed her arms. The woman's son came into the room, and she escaped, according to the report.

Police found gasoline used as an accelerant in the kitchen and living room and a gas line that had been cut by a sharp object.

NW News on 10/08/2015

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