Alleged arsonist, whose pacemaker data led to arrest, in court

A Middletown man charged with multiple felonies for allegedly setting his house on fire in September was arraigned today in Butler County Common Pleas Court.

MORE: Pacemaker data led to arson charges

Ross Compton, 59, was indicted this month for aggravated arson and insurance fraud for allegedly starting the fire on Sept. 19 at his Court Donegal house.

Compton, who is free on his own recognizance, was declared indigent today by Judge Charles Pater and given a court-appointed attorney.

Compton is scheduled to be back in court later this month for a pre-trial hearing

MORE: Middletown homeowner facing felonies for house fire

Compton was arrested shortly after the fire in part based on evidence taken from the scene and data from his pacemaker, according to Middletown police.

Police said Compton gave statements that were “inconsistent” with the evidence at the fire.

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About the Author

Lauren Pack

Lauren Pack, a native of the Miami Valley, has been on staff at the Journal-News since 1994 reporting on courts and crime.