Felony Arson Charges For Man Accused In Overnight Trash Fires

YONKERS, NY — A Yonkers man's inexplicable actions overnight have led to a slew of criminal charges.

Edwin Polanco set at least four fires around southwest Yonkers, according to the Yonkers Police Department.

The 34-year-old set several piles of garbage on fire, causing damage to a motor vehicle in the process, officials said. Yonkers Police Department officers and detectives soon located Polanco and apprehended him, charging him with one count of felony arson 4th degree and three counts of misdemeanor arson 5th degree.

Four fires were located that investigators believe were set by Polanco last night. However, authorities say further investigation could tie him to more overnight fires.

Polanco was required to be released with an appearance ticket, according to YPD, a situation decried by Yonkers officials in public statements.

"Arson is one of the most serious crimes," Yonkers Mayor Mike Spano said. "While this person was not successful in imposing harm on anyone, the dangerous intent should be critically examined. Handing down just an appearance ticket is a slap on the wrist and needs to be addressed. The lack of consequences and punishment fuels criminals like this to continue to pose a danger to our community and quality of life."

Police Commissioner Christopher Sapienza said bail reform measures, that required Polanco's release, put both police and the public at risk.

"Our Officers and Detectives continue to get the job done despite the restrictions imposed on them by lawmakers," Sapienza said. "A person intentionally setting multiple fires in a highly populated area while people are sleeping should not be rewarded with freedom awaiting an arraignment."