Christopher Sayce, 42, admitted arson after lighting a blaze inside The Wallich accommodation on Carlton Terrace on 16 November last year. The fire caused extensive damage to his attic room and forced staff to evacuate 13 other residents from the three‑storey building.
Police said Sayce started the fire shortly before 4pm, then walked out of the property and used a nearby payphone at around 4.20pm to tell officers what he had done.
Sayce pleaded guilty to arson in December and was sentenced this week.
According to police, Sayce launched the attack after a member of staff refused to give him a cigarette. The Wallich provides supported accommodation for people experiencing homelessness and addiction issues, and Sayce had been living in one of the building’s two attic rooms.
Detective Sergeant James Tincombe said Sayce’s actions could easily have led to tragedy.
“Christopher Sayce launched his arson attack after being refused a cigarette by a member of staff at the premises,” he said. “It is very fortunate that nobody was injured as a result of Christopher Sayce’s reckless actions.
“He clearly poses a danger to the public and for that reason it is great to see him receive an extended prison sentence.”
Court proceedings heard that Sayce had been consuming large amounts of alcohol at the time and had walked past staff on the stairs as they rushed to investigate the fire alarm. Prosecutors said the blaze caused significant damage to the room and forced the evacuation of all 13 other occupants.
The Wallich is now assessing the full cost of the damage.
Sayce will serve a custodial term followed by an extended licence period due to the risk he poses to the public.
