Altamont Man Pleads Guilty to Arson Charge

28-year-old Nevin Scott has admitted his role in setting fire to some plastic that had been hung up to serve as a windbreak for smokers outside The Whistlestop in downtown Altamont in April 2018. Scott then reportedly left the establishment with the fire burning knowing there were patrons inside the bar. Police said the fire had ignited some of the wood frame of the building by the time employees of The Whistlestop were able to use wet cloths to knock down the fire.

Scott had originally been charged with Aggravated Arson, a Class X felony, but the count was reduced to a Class 2 felony charge of Arson. The new charge alleges damage to personal property as a result of Scott's actions.

No injuries resulted from the incident.

Scott is to be sentenced on February 28. He could receive up to seven years in prison.