Crime & Safety

Glen Ridge Man Admits to Throwing Molotov Cocktail at House

Family of four lives in the home, but no one was hurt.

A Glen Ridge man admitted to creating a firebomb known as a molotov cocktail and throwing it at a house in August, Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray said Friday.

James A. Fiol, 18, pleaded guilty to third degree arson appearing before Hon. Judge Robert H. Gardner Friday.

Fiol filled a bottle with gasoline then placed a rag into the bottle and lit the rag on fire before tossing it at a Glen Ridge house on August 11, said Assistant Prosecutor Jason Hollingsworth, who handled the investigation.

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A family of four lives in the home, but no one was hurt.

“Fortunately, no one was injured. However, the potential for the loss of life and property exists in all arson cases and are taken seriously by the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office,” Hollingsworth said.

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Under the terms of the plea agreement, Fiol will be placed on probation for the third degree offense. Sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 31, 2014.

Fiol will be required as part of his probation to pay restitution for the damage to the home.


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