Teen on Probation for Torching Stone Ridge CB

WGN 55-15-08

 

New Brunswick, November 30, 2010 - A teen who pleaded guilty last month to burning down the historic Stone Ridge Covered Bridge northwest of Fredericton was sentenced Monday to supervised probation for one year and ordered to perform 50 hours of community service.

The Zealand-area youth, who can't be identified under provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act, was charged with intentionally or recklessly causing damage to the bridge by fire Oct. 10, 2008. Two other males - a youth and an adult - were charged in the same incident.

The bridge, which crossed the Keswick River, had connected the communities of Stone Ridge and Morehouse Corner for about 100 years.

Judge Julian Dickson described the crime as a "pure act of vandalism" and "totally senseless." Not only was it a heritage bridge, it was a vital transportation link, the judge said. It cost $375,000 to replace it.

For the story, go to: http://dailygleaner.canadaeast.com/front/article/1330070.