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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