Investigator testifies in Ohio arson trial

TROY, Ohio (AP) — A state fire marshal’s investigator says evidence doesn’t match the explanation given by a former Ohio coach about a fire that destroyed his home in western Ohio.

Ron Steman testified Tuesday in the trial of 42-year-old James Clay, a former coach at Troy Christian High School, that a gasoline can was found at the 2007 fire near Piqua.

Assistant Miami County Prosecutor James Bennett says Clay started the fire to cast himself as the victim of a racial crime. Authorities also found a spray-painted racial slur on his car.

Defense attorney Griff Nowicki says the fire was set by intruders who targeted Clay after he was charged with sexual battery involving a 15-year-old girl.

Clay has pleaded not guilty to aggravated arson.

He is serving a five-year prison term for sexual battery.