Maricopa County Attorney Rachel Mitchell announced the sentencing of Osman Perez Vazquez for setting two houses on fire in West Phoenix. Vazquez was sentenced to four years in the Department of Corrections for his crimes.
“I take a tough approach to this type of crime because of the physical, financial, and emotional damage it does to the victims,” shared County Attorney Rachel Mitchell. “These types of cases are challenging to prosecute and require a specific set of skills. I commend Deputy County Attorney Jonathan Hutcheson for holding this offender accountable.”
On May 29, 2023, the Phoenix Fire Department responded to a fire at a vacant home undergoing renovations. A few days later, authorities were alerted to another house fire in the same neighborhood. In this second incident, two people were inside during the fire but managed to escape to safety. The fires caused $45,000 worth of damage to the homes.
After his arrest, Vazquez admitted to setting both houses on fire because he believed his neighbors were following him and taking his belongings. He also claimed he had plans to torch his mother’s house.
In May 2024, Vazquez pled guilty to two counts of Arson of an Occupied Structure, a Class Two Felony. He was sentenced to four years in the Department of Corrections and three years of supervised probation upon release.
The court documents, including the Order of Confinement signed by Hon. Geoffrey Fish, detailed the terms of Vazquez’s sentence: the defendant will receive credit for 377 days already served. County Attorney Mitchell emphasized the importance of addressing such crimes with severity due to their potential to cause severe harm. The quick response by the Phoenix Fire Department and the thorough investigation by law enforcement ensured that Vazquez was held responsible for his actions.
