Gerard Crawford, 56, received a 32-month sentence at Belfast Crown Court for arson at his mother's home in West Belfast. The sentence splits equally between custody and licence. Crawford joined the hearing via videolink from HMP Maghaberry.

A fire broke out just after 11am on November 7, 2024, at a terraced house on Cavendish Street. A member of the public reported the blaze. The property belonged to Crawford's mother, who was in hospital at the time. Flames spread to a neighbouring home.

Emergency services found the house well alight. Crawford stood outside and told police he started the fire with matches on the curtains. He also admitted the act to his neighbour, captured on a ring doorbell recording.

Police arrested Crawford after taking him to hospital for welfare checks. He has remained in custody since the incident. The neighbouring property suffered over £11,000 in damage. The mother's home stays boarded up.

Judge Laura Ievers KC noted Crawford's role in caring for his mother before her hospitalisation. She considered his solitary lifestyle, mental health issues, vulnerabilities, and clean criminal record. A doctor's report linked the arson to a depressive episode and auditory hallucinations.

The judge described the act as serious due to its location on a residential terraced street. She imposed the sentence for arson reckless as to whether life would be endangered. Judge Ievers advised Crawford to engage with professionals upon release for support and to prevent reoffending.