Woman who set home on fire sent to prison

A Carbon County woman who caused a fire that extensively damaged a home she shared with her boyfriend, was sentenced to a short county prison term on Monday.

Kathleen M. Reas, 47, of 132 Mansi Drive, Indian Mountain Lakes, Albrightsville, was sentenced to serve one to 23 months in prison by President Judge Roger N. Nanovic II.

Reas was charged by state police at Fern Ridge with setting a fire that extensively damaged her residence on March 7, 2009.

Troopers said Reas had a fight with her boyfriend and then went to a bedroom in the home and set fire to love letters he had given her. The fire got out of control and Reas attempted to put the fire out but could not. Damages exceeded $46,000.

Reas said she was intoxicated at the time of the incident and admitted to a alcohol abuse problem which she has since addressed.

Defense Atty. Joseph Perilli told Nanovic that Reas and the boyfriend, argued over the latter's daughter living at the residence. He said the daughter had a drug problem and has since pleaded guilty to a drug count and is currently serving a state prison sentence.

Reas told Nanovic, "I'm sorry. I want to put this behind me."

Nanovic said he recognized the fact that Reas had an alcohol problem and a "tough life". He noted prior drunk driving convictions and other problems in her life including the fact her mother was murdered.

Nanovic added that he would sentence her in the mitigated range since the victim, her boyfriend, are still together and the other factors he had noted. Nanovic voiced concern on how Reas was going to make restitution to the insurance company for the damages to the home.

In addition to the prison term Nanovic ordered Reas serve four years of probation consecutive; supply a DNA sample and pay the $250 fee; continue counseling; zero tolerance on drug or alcohol use; make restitution of $46,287.91 to the insurance company with $250 monthly minimum payments; and render three hours of community service per month while on parole/probation.

She will serve the prison term on consecutive weekends beginning Friday, Feb. 5, at 7 p.m., Nanovic ruled so she could keep her present job to make payments on her court costs and restitution.