Rhinebeck, NY Man Charged With Arson After Flock Camera Fire

A Rhinebeck man is now facing charges after police say he set a Flock surveillance camera on fire in Dutchess County, causing a brush fire late Saturday night.

According to the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office, 26-year-old John K. Coleman of Rhinebeck was arrested during the early morning hours of Sunday, October 11, following an investigation into the incident.

Flock Camera Debate in Dutchess County, NY

Flock cameras have become a hot-button topic across Dutchess County recently, but this incident took things a step further after investigators say one of the cameras was deliberately set on fire.

Flock Camera Set on Fire in Rhinebeck, NY

Police say the incident happened on Saturday, October 10th at approximately 11:50 p.m. when the New York State Police and Dutchess County Sheriff's deputies responded to the area of 6052 Route 9 in Rhinebeck for a reported brush fire.

Dutchess County Man Arrested and Charged

Coleman was arrested and charged with third-degree criminal mischief, a felony, and fifth-degree arson, a misdemeanor.

Following his arrest, Coleman was processed and released on appearance tickets. He is scheduled to appear in Rhinebeck Town Court on November 5.

The investigation involved the Dutchess County Sheriff's Office, New York State Police, the Dutchess County Fire Investigation Division, and the Rhinebeck Fire Department.

As with any criminal case, the charges against Coleman are accusations, and he is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court. If there are any changes to this information, including charges being dropped or dismissed, please email me at CJ@HudsonValleyCountry.com so the necessary updates can be made.