Suspect identified after 'deliberate' hedge fires in Fordingbridge

Officers from Hampshire Constabulary identified and spoke with an individual in connection with several incidents of hedges being deliberately set on fire.

As reported, multiple hedges were reported ablaze in the New Forest town within a three-week period in October, which fire officials say were started deliberately.

Three very similar incidents, all within half a mile of each other, took place between October 11 to 27 – causing “upset and fear” for residents.

Aerial image showing area of Fordingbridge subjected to deliberate hedge fires (Image: Google)

Following enquiries, a spokesperson for Ringwood Police told residents what their investigation had led to and outlined why no legal action would be taken.

The spokesperson said: “Based on a description given of a possible involved party, a suspect was identified, and officers from Fordingbridge carried out a joint visit with a member of the fire service at the suspect’s home address.

“Based on initial attendance, and following the needs of the suspect being taken into account, they were invited to [a police station] with a family member in order to discuss the incidents they are believed to have been responsible for.

“It is important in incidents such as these that we consider the severity of the offence, the potential risk to the community, and the immediate welfare of the victim, as well as any safeguarding concerns that we might have for the suspect, and take all of these things into account when dividing how to proceed.

Hedge in Victoria Gardens, Fordingbridge (Image: Newsquest)

“On this occasion, without conclusive evidence or a full admission from the suspect, we weren’t in a position to pursue a prosecution.

“A lack of prosecution doesn’t mean that no action has been taken as there are lots of disposal options available to enable us to deal with incidents without the need to attend court, and the victims were spoken to at the time who confirmed they were happy with this decision in the circumstances.”

Officers stated that the suspect would receive input from the fire service highlighting the potential dangers around fire, both to themselves and people around them, and the impact their actions can have on other people.

The spokesperson added: “Please rest assured that we take incidents such as this seriously, and our number one priority is maintaining the safety of residents in the local area.”