Second former firefighter gets probation in Cairo arsons

CAIRO, Ill. -- A second former auxiliary firefighter has been sentenced to probation, restitution and a fine for his involvement in two arsons in and around Cairo.

Richard Pitcher, 19, of Cairo, was placed on 2 1/2 years of supervised probation Wednesday and ordered to undergo a psychiatric evaluation and pay $1,000 in restitution and a $1,500 fine. Circuit Court Judge Charles Cavaness handed down the sentence, which was similar to the one that of David Patrick, 24, got earlier this month, according to the Alexander County circuit clerk's office.

Both men, former members of the Cairo Auxiliary Fire Department, pleaded guilty to two arson charges in April. With those guilty pleas, Patrick and Pitcher admitted to starting fires in January 2011 on 33rd Street in Cairo and near the Mississippi River levee.

The circuit clerk's office said Patrick had already completed his psychiatric evaluation. The restitution was set at $2,000, with each of the men paying half.

Pertinent address:

2000 Washington Avenue, Cairo, Ill.