LAKELAND —
One of Lanier County’s volunteer firefighters has been charged with four counts of arson, according to the Lanier County Sheriff’s Office.
Insurance and Fire Commissioner Ralph Hudgens’ office reported Monday that someone torched three houses in four separate cases of arson, which resulted in heavy damages to two of the residences. He said the third residence was a complete loss after being set ablaze twice.
The arsons date back to July of this year.
The motive for the alleged arsons was to endear himself to his community, according to Hudgens’ report from investigators. Hudgens also said the man’s motive was confirmed during an interview with investigators. A confession was also obtained, according to the Insurance and Fire Commissioner’s Office.
“So from here, the case will be turned over to the district attorney for prosecution,” Hudgens said.
Johnny Rae Friskey, 43, of Lakeland, was arrested and is charged with four counts of arson in the first degree, according to a Lanier County Sheriff’s Office booking report.
The Lanier County Sheriff’s Office and the Georgia Fire Chief’s Association are handling the investigation jointly, said Lanier County Sheriff Nick Norton.
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