Man admits Sandown arson and knife possession

A man has admitted starting a fire at his home address in Sandown.

Andrew Turner, aged 59, of Beachfield Road, was charged with arson, being reckless as to whether life is endangered, following the fire which occurred on the morning of Saturday 26 November 2022.

The blaze caused significant damage to the house, which he lived in at the time with his now ex-partner.

When police attended, Turner approached an officer in the street and admitted he’d committed the act deliberately.

Turner was arrested, and officers found a knife in his pocket. He also told police in interview that he had acted out in ‘revenge’ following the recent breakdown of his relationship.

Appearing at Isle of Wight Crown Court yesterday (30 January 2023), he pleaded guilty to the arson as well as a separate charge of possessing a knife in a public place.

He was remanded in custody to appear at the same court for sentencing on 21 April.