SPRINGVILLE, N.Y. — A woman was sentenced after intentionally setting a fire at a Springville apartment building where she lived.
Erie County District Attorney John Flynn announced on Thursday that Sara J. Lilley, 37, of Springville was sentenced to eight years in prison and five years of supervision, post-release by Erie County Court Judge Kenneth Case.
Fire crews and the Erie County Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a fire started at the Springbrook apartment building on North Buffalo Street in the Village of Springville on Monday, January 23 at 10:30 p.m.
The fire damaged multiple apartment units but did not cause any reported injuries. However, two cats died, and several residents had to be displaced.
Lilley pleaded guilty in court on Thursday as charged to one count of second-degree arson after being indicted on Sept. 14.
Flynn said he hopes all of the victims feel justice has been served by this defendant pleading guilty to the highest charge and being sentenced to a period of incarceration.
“This defendant knowingly placed her neighbors in immediate danger as they slept inside of their apartments by intentionally setting fire to the building. While I am thankful that no one was killed or injured, nearly a dozen residents of the Springbrook Apartments lost their homes and much, if not all, of their belongings,” Flynn said.
He also said this could have been a much more devastating fire if it were not for the quick actions of the first responding Sheriff’s deputies and the numerous volunteer fire companies. Erie County Sheriff John C. Garcia also commended both units efforts in the investigation and successful prosecution.
On Thursday, 11 final orders of protection were issued for the victims involved which will remain in effect until December of 2036.
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