Man jailed for 10 years for arson on ex-partner's home

A man has been jailed for ten years setting fire to an ex-partner’s home.

John Middleton admitted arson with intent to endanger life after forcing his way into the house in Consett on April 6 this year.

The victim was not in at the time, but the fire caused significant damage to the property.

At Durham Crown Court last week, Middleton also admitted two counts of assault by beating, one of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and two counts of criminal damage to a mobile phone following several incidents in March and April this year.

The 30-year-old of Seaham was sentenced to ten years in prison.

Detective Constable Christopher Spence, of Durham Constabulary, said: “This was a deliberate and horrific incident that could easily have ended in tragedy had the victim been in that day

“These incidents have had a life-changing impact on the victim.

“I am pleased we have been able to get justice for her and I hope the outcome can help her close this chapter of her life.”