A McAlester man was arrested last Saturday on three charges of arson in the first degree, two charges of cruelty to animals, and assault on a police officer. Richard Lee Dedmon was seen in court this week on those same charges.
On Saturday, Sep. 7th, police were dispatched to E Monroe in McAlester due to a structure fire. Police detained Dedmon at the residence shortly after arrival. Police also discovered that two fires had been started with one in the front and back yard and caused damage to the house.
According to an affidavit, the resident of the house that was set ablaze, had video of Dedmon lighting a whiskey-soaked piece of paper on fire before throwing it at the house. Two animals perished in the house as well due to the fire.
Dedmon also is alleged of threatening to fight a cop and physically lunged toward one after being taken into custody. He is currently being held on a $250,000 bond and his next court date is set for Sep. 19th.