Domestic abuser jailed for setting fire and assault in Milnathort

DOMESTIC ABUSER JAILED FOR SETTING FIRE AND ASSAULT IN MILNATHORT

A domestic abuser who started a fire at his flat in Milnathort, near Kinross, has been sentenced to seven years in prison.

David Storie set fire to a cushion and mattress in his flat, causing the fire to spread to neighboring homes and leading to the demolition of the block.

The High Court in Edinburgh heard that Storie’s then-girlfriend saw him using a cigarette lighter to ignite the fire after he had attacked her.

She managed to escape, but he followed her and dragged her back.

He then lit the fire and left without alerting others, resulting in significant structural damage and endangering multiple residents.

Storie was convicted of assaulting his partner to her injury and risking her life by choking her and restricting her breathing on June 1, 2024.

He was also found guilty of wilful fireraising related to the fire at Wester Loan.

During sentencing, Judge Alison Stirling emphasized that custody was the only appropriate outcome due to the seriousness of the offenses.

Storie, currently incarcerated at HMP Perth, had no prior imprisonment and has a history of adverse childhood experiences.

A non-harassment order was also issued, prohibiting him from contacting the victim indefinitely.