WEWAHITCHKA, Fla. – CFO and State Fire Marshal Jimmy Patronis today announced that investigators with the Department of Financial Services’ Bureau of Fire and Arson Investigations (BFAI) have arrested William Nunery on charges of arson after an investigation uncovered that Nunery intentionally set fire to his neighbor’s front steps October 29, 2017.
 
As a result of the fire, the victim contacted the Gulf County Sheriff’s Office and requested assistance from the BFAI November 4, 2017 to aid in determining whom set fire to the steps.

 

As a result of the investigation, and with the Department of Financial Services’ Bureau of Forensic Services’ assistance in analyzing samples of debris from the scene, it was determined that the victim’s neighbor, Nunery, was responsible for setting fire to the structure’s steps. Nunery and the victim have been in an ongoing dispute prior to fire being set.
 
Nunery was arrested without incident on November 20, 2017 with the assistance of Gulf County Sheriff’s Office. He has been transported to the Gulf County Jail and was charged with one count of arson.

 

The case will be prosecuted by the Office of State Attorney, 14th Judicial Circuit. If convicted, Nunery faces up to 30 years in prison.
 
The Bureau of Fire and Arson Investigations is a law enforcement branch of the Department of Financial Services that conducts statewide fire, arson and explosives investigations. The Bureau encourages Floridians who suspect or witness suspicious behavior to contact the Arson Tip Hotline by calling 1-877-662-7766. Callers can choose to remain anonymous and any information that leads to a prosecution may be eligible for a cash reward.