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More charges laid in connection with Vernon arsons

Vernon man already facing four charges now faces a total of 19 in connection with fires in Vernon between May and November 2014
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Charges have been laid against a Vernon man in connection with a series of unsolved fires in 2014

Charges have been laid in connection with a series of arson fires in Vernon in 2014, including the one that burned down the historic grandstand at Kin Race Track.

William Murray Phelps Munton, born in 1961, was already facing four charges of intentionally or recklessly causing damage by fire or explosion to property

Munton is now facing 19 charges, as court documents show Crown counsel has approved 15 similar charges in connection with a series of fires between May 20 and Nov. 20, 2014.

The arsons were a significant safety concern for our community, said Supt. Jim McNamara, with the RCMP.

We’re very pleased that additional charges related to our investigation have been laid, as it underscores the gravity of these offences.

Among the property damaged by fire during that span were the Kin Race Track grandstand, a pair of boats, two motorhomes, two vehicles, a duplex under construction, a recycling bin, wooden pallets and fruit boxes.

Munton is also facing the matter of two counts of making or publishing child pornography and possession of child pornography, allegedly stemming between August 2011 and August 2015.

Munton appeared in Vernon Provincial Court Thursday. His matters have been put over until Nov. 3. He is not in custody and the charges have not been proven in court.