PUNTA GORDA, Fla. โ A 31-year-old Punta Gorda man was arrested and federally charged in connection with a fire that damaged a classroom at the Chabad of Charlotte County on Sept. 19, prosecutors said Thursday.
Authorities say the late-night blaze was contained to a childrenโs classroom and caused no injuries. Firefighters discovered evidence that an accelerant had been used and that a back window had been breached. Investigators also found the letter J spray-painted in multiple locations outside the building.
The arrest followed tips from family members, who told police that the suspect had expressed a desire to burn down the center and that a gas can was missing from the home before the fire. Prosecutors say the manโs mother and an aunt alerted authorities after growing concerned about his statements.
Law enforcement says a license plate reader placed the suspectโs vehicle near the Chabad about 40 minutes before the fire alarm, and officers recovered a gas can and a black spray paint can during a search of his residence. The complaint alleges the suspect referred to Jewish people using the letter J.
The U.S. Attorneyโs Office in the Middle District of Florida filed a criminal complaint charging Blake Richard Hoover with arson. If convicted on all counts, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five to 20 years in federal prison.
Local police and county officials condemned the act. Punta Gorda Police Chief Pamela Smith called the crime despicable and said officers would maintain an increased presence during the High Holy Days. Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell praised the collaborative investigation that led to the arrest.
Chabad of Charlotte County said it was grateful no one was hurt and thanked local authorities and the community for support. Rabbi Simon Jacobson said his first concern was the Torah scrolls and that the congregation was pained that the act was carried out by an individual. The center said services will continue for Rosh Hashanah.
Jewish and security groups welcomed the swift law enforcement response. The Anti-Defamation Leagueโs Florida office expressed appreciation for local investigators for treating the incident as a potential hate crime and for taking steps to protect the community.
The case remains under investigation by local and federal agencies, including the Punta Gorda Police Department, the Charlotte County Sheriffโs Office, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Prosecutors said they will continue to develop evidence ahead of formal charges and potential prosecution.
This article is based on verified information from the U.S. Department of Justice, The Associated Press, the Punta Gorda Police Department, Chabad of Charlotte County, and the Anti-Defamation League.