DALLAS PLANTATION – A second man was arrested and charged with arson Thursday evening, with law enforcement alleging that he was involved in the theft of two pieces of equipment from a Sandy River Plantation business earlier this week and the subsequent burning of a bulldozer.
According to Maine Department of Public Safety spokesman Stephen McCausland, Fire Marshal’s Office investigators have charged Alexander Allen, 37 of Dallas Plantation, with arson, a Class A felony. Allen was reportedly the roommate of Devin Clark, 18, who was charged with arson following an investigation into the apparent theft and burning of a piece of equipment on Tuesday.
At approximately 7 a.m. Tuesday morning, hunters discovered a burned bulldozer in a swamp in Sandy River Plantation. Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Maine Warden Service and Fire Marshal’s Office investigators responded, learning that two pieces of equipment, an excavator and a bulldozer, had both been taken without permission. Both pieces of equipment, and the land they were found on, are owned by Randy Cousineau of Strong.
It appeared that the bulldozer, a Caterpillar D-5 model, had been driven through a swampy area and gotten stuck, prior to it being set on fire. According to McCausland, the damage to the equipment was estimated at $100,000.
The excavator, which was discovered alongside a dirt road, was also damaged, but not burnt.
Investigators were led to the Rangeley area, announcing the arrest of Clark on Tuesday. Allan was arrested Thursday evening and charged with arson before being transported to Franklin County Detention Center.
Additional individuals are believed to be involved with the incident, McCausland said, and more charges are anticipated.
hope they get all involved. some people dont have a care in the world when they steal and set fire to someone elses equipment. They should have to pay for the damages, as I am sure the insurance company will want to get their money back. Shame on you two and whoever else is involved.grow up and act like reasonable adults!
Thanks idiots, expect to see posted signs and gates.
why would you start your adulthood off like this? Hopefully it won’t be a slap on the wrist. Make them help in recovery of this stuff. Some kind of punishment to make them realize the severity of their actions. We all need Christ.
Payment for the damage, a fine, some crowbar hotel time and a boot in the but is what they need…
I know there is no honor among thieves but seriously why jeopardize a man’s livelihood?
I’m willing to bet these two aren’t what you would call contributing members of society which means they depend on people like Mr. Cousineau to fund the State’s milk tank.
i guess they didnt realize or care that by their selfish actions they have put people out of work…especially this time of year…shame shame shame!!!!
Kudos to the hunters that helped
I’m sorry about your equipment Randy. I’m sure you have insurance on the machines, but that doesn’t give you peace of mind about leaving your property without a lock, or gated. I hope you understand that these low lifes aren’t the normal here. We appreciate your business and contributions to the local economy!