By CHAT News Today

Man charged following February grassfire pleads guilty to lesser charge

Jul 7, 2017 | 4:40 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — A man charged in connection to a grassfire near Gas City Campground has entered a guilty plea today in provincial court.

Wesley VanBocquestal pleaded guilty Friday to a lesser charge of mischief causing property damage, along with two counts of failing to comply with his probation. He was originally charged with arson in connection with the incident on February 18. His sentencing is scheduled for October 4.

The 61-year-old was arrested after police and firefighters responded to a grassfire in an open field between the campground and the Clarion Hotel. The fire was quickly contained, and there were no injuries or damage to any nearby buildings.

VanBocquestal has not entered pleas on a third count of breach of probation, breaching his conditions and possession of incendiary material. He will speak to those charges on October 4.

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