CFO Jimmy Patronis Announces Marion County Hospital Arson Arrest
OCALA, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Daniel Holmes on four counts of Arson and one count of Battery on a Firefighter/EMT for his alleged involvement in intentionally setting three fires inside the West Marion Hospital in Ocala.
CFO Jimmy Patronis said, "We take arson seriously no matter who’s at risk, but committing arson at a hospital is especially despicable. Arson is a costly and dangerous crime and will not be tolerated in Florida. Thank you to my fire investigators and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office for helping apprehend this suspect and ensure the safety of everyone at the hospital."
On Sunday, April 23, 2023, Marion County Fire Rescue requested the assistance of the Division of Investigative and Forensic Services (DIFS) regarding a structure fire at West Marion Hospital (HCA) in Ocala. Upon the arrival of a DIFS detective, it was discovered that Holmes had allegedly set three fires across the building before fleeing on foot and setting a grass fire across the street. Holmes was detained there by Marion County Sheriff's Office, before custody was transferred to the Ocala Police Department (OPD).
Daniel Holmes was arrested on April 24, 2023 and transported to Marion County Jail. If convicted on all charges, he could face over 30 years in prison.
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About the CFO
Florida
Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Blaise Ingoglia serves as
the state’s top financial watchdog, a member of the Florida Cabinet, and the
head of the Florida Department of Financial Services. As CFO, he oversees
billions of dollars in state funds and is committed to protecting taxpayer
dollars, strengthening Florida’s fiscal health, and delivering essential
services that support the state’s excellent economy. As State Fire Marshal, CFO
Ingoglia also works every day to support Florida’s first responders as they
risk their lives to serve and protect communities across the state.