Man admits setting numerous fires

SCRANTON, Pa. (AP) — A Pennsylvania man suspected in at least 30 fires over the last three decades says he isn’t sure why he set some of the blazes but never burned an occupied structure.

Authorities say 48-year-old Stephen Giacobbe is a prolific arsonist. Already charged with setting eight fires in Lackawanna County, he was in Wayne County Court on Thursday to face charges in two more fires.

Giacobbe tells WNEP-TV some of the fires he set were for revenge, including one he set to his sister’s shed in 2006 after an argument.

Giacobbe said some fires were “a favor” to the community after a hearing earlier this month.

Investigators say Giacobbe is suspected in about 20 fires for which the statute of limitations has expired.

Giacobbe is being held at Lackawanna County Prison.