Image via WikipediaLONG BEACH – A man accused of setting a string of fires in Long Beach, including two in homes in which the residents slept, then taunting police in messages left at the scene was charged with attempted murder, arson and other crimes today by the District Attorney’s office.Joshua Ethan Thomas, 26 (dob 4-20-1985), of Long Beach was charged in case No. NA 088759 with 27 felony counts including two of attempted murder, arson and multiple counts of burglary, possession of flammable material, attempted arson and attempt to burn property. The complaint alleged a felony criminal threat conviction (NA 058315) in Long Beach in 2004.
Thomas appeared briefly in court this afternoon, but his arraignment was put over until May 5, said Deputy District Attorney Sean Carney, the prosecutor from the Target Crimes Division who is handling the case.
Long Beach police arrested Thomas on Wednesday after a series of fires and burglaries earlier this month. The crimes charged occurred on April 14, 15 and 16.
In two of the arsons, both of homes on April 16, people were inside sleeping when the fires were started. In one case, a victim’s bed was set afire while the victim slept, authorities said. No injuries were reported.
Thomas remains in custody on the $2.35 million bail recommended by the District Attorney’s Office.
