Arson Charges in Houston Furniture Store Fire

Back in May a storage warehouse at Gallery Furniture went up in flames. The fire occurred while people were inside and resulted in $15 million in damages. Soon after the fire, it was revealed that the blaze was intentionally set.

Now, an arrest has been made and charges filed against a former employee of the store who seemed to hold a grudge.

Sixty six year old Robert Carroll Gillham is charged with 1^st degree arson in the May 21^st fire. This wasn’t the first conflict the former employee had with the store, but it was certainly the most extreme.

According to KVUE the store took out a restraining order against Gillham back in 2007. This order required he stay away from the property and cease any harassment against staff or customers of the store. He was later charged with two counts of mischief related to the store, though those charges were later dismissed.

Luckily no one was injured in the May blaze, although an investigator was hurt when combing the scene for evidence.

The first degree arson charge is the most serious arson charge on can get. It is typically a second degree felony that can be punished with up to 20 years in prison. However, due to the value of the damage in this case, Gillham may be facing 1^st degree felony charges.

It isn’t clear if Gillham was fired from the company or what started his angst. What is clear is that there was definitely something troubling this older gentleman, if he did in fact start the blaze.

Arson is by far the most violent property crime. However, there are many other property offenses that can result in lengthy prison terms and large fines. Things like criminal mischief are far more common but also considered life changing.

Depending on the amount of damage done in the commission of criminal mischief, you could be facing anything from a Class C misdemeanor to a 1^st degree felony.

Whatever the charges are that you are facing, you are likely wondering where to turn for high quality legal advice. As your attorney it would be my job to ensure you are getting the best possible treatment in court. Call our Texas Attorneys today for a consultation on your case.

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