22-year-old Nigerian man charged with arson after setting fire inside a U.S. Detention Centre
Okiemute Omatie, 22, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainee has been charged with one count of first-degree arson and one count of destruction of state property, in connection with the fire incident within the middle’s Unit three on Friday, May 26.
According to Etowah County Arson Task Force member, Lt. Robin Grant, Omatie, a convicted felon, manipulated an electrical outlet with a small wire to spark the fire.
Security video shows him walking to a cell with a burning piece of paper with which he then sets a mattress and other combustible items on fire. The sprinkler inside the unit activated as smoke and flames filled the cell.
“As bad as this incident was, it could have been a lot worse,” said Sheriff Todd Entrekin.
“The quick actions of the Gadsden Fire Department and the deputies inside the detention center saved lives.
“Omatie has verbally confirmed that he is a native and citizen of Nigeria and has no claim to U.S. citizenship.” said Sheriff Entrekin.
Source” ETOWAH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
