CFO Jimmy Patronis Announces Bradford County Arson Arrest

LAWTEY, Fla. - Today, Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis announced the arrest of Jeffery Sellers on charges of arson of a structure and resisting arrest.

CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis said, “Arson is a devastating and malicious crime. As Florida’s State Fire Marshal, I have made it my top priority to protect Floridians from bad actors who seek to endanger the lives of others. If you commit acts of arson in Florida, you will be arrested and prosecuted to the full extent of the law. Thank you to our Bureau of Fire, Arson, and Explosives Investigations for a job well done and keeping Floridians safe."

After being contacted by the Bradford County Fire Department, the Division of Investigative and Forensic Services (DIFS), Bureau of Fire, Arson, and Explosives Investigations (BFAEI) conducted an investigation into a structure fire at 20516 NE 20th Lane in Lawtey, Florida. Following a scene safety inspection, DIFS detectives conducted an origin and cause investigation which led to the discovery of a digital video recording device on the property. A review of the device's footage allegedly showed Sellers committing the act of arson. Additional investigation into the incident concluded that there was no other probable cause of ignition, even though all potential sources were considered. Following the gathering of all possible evidence, including film review and an analysis from the BFAEI Bureau of Forensic Services Lab, a warrant was sought and signed for Sellers' arrest.

Jeffery Sellers was arrested on October 31, 2022, and booked into the Bradford County Jail. He could face more than 20 years in prison if convicted.

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About CFO Jimmy Patronis 
Chief Financial Officer and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis is a statewide elected official and a member of Florida’s Cabinet who oversees the Department of Financial Services. CFO Patronis works each day to fight insurance fraud, support Florida’s firefighters, and ensure the state’s finances are stable to support economic growth in the state. Follow the activities of the Department on Facebook (FLDFS) and X (@FLDFS).