An Ocean View man charged with allegedly burning down his home with four people inside will undergo a mental evaluation, a judge decided Monday. ADVERTISING An Ocean View man charged with allegedly burning down his home with four people inside
An Ocean View man charged with allegedly burning down his home with four people inside will undergo a mental evaluation, a judge decided Monday.
James M. Thomas, 38, is charged with first-degree arson, first-degree terroristic threatening and four counts of second-degree reckless endangerment. His bail was set at $64,000.
During his preliminary hearing Monday, Deputy Public Defender Ann Datta asked for a mental evaluation. The state, represented by Sherry Lawson, did not object. Kona District Judge Andrew P. Wilson granted the request.
A hearing to address the evaluation was scheduled for 1 p.m. March 16. Wilson asked if that would be enough time for the three doctors to individually interview Thomas and prepare their reports. Datta said the defense would ask to extend the time if necessary.
Thomas allegedly started a fire Feb. 2 in his home on the 92-8200 block of Bamboo Lane in Ocean View while it was occupied by two women and two teenagers. All escaped unharmed.
Firefighters were alerted at 5:55 p.m. When they arrived at 6:05 p.m., they found the back rear bedroom of the one-story, three-bedroom home engulfed in flames, according to a department press release. Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire by 6:20 p.m.; however, the home was considered a total loss because of fire, smoke and water damage.
Eight of Thomas’ family members were present during Monday’s hearing. After some discussion between the attorneys, they were allowed to speak with him, although he remained handcuffed and about 30 feet away.
It was a short, emotional exchange, with tears from most present. Thomas was then led away to return to jail.
Email Graham Milldrum at gmilldrum@westhawaiitoday.com.
