Arson Arrest

Suspect Steven Ben Hines

On November 12, 2017, 51-year-old Steven Ben Hines, was arrested for multiple counts of arson in the City of Mesa. The Genoa Lakes Apartments, located at 3320 E. University Dr. in Mesa, had been the victim of multiple, intentionally set, dumpster fires over the past month. Detectives from the Red Mountain Patrol District set up surveillance at the apartment complex and were present when another arson occurred on site. Detectives located and individual later identified as Steven Ben Hines, who they suspected of possibly being involved. After further investigation and questioning, Hines admitted to setting five (5) dumpster fires since October 25. Hines, a resident of the complex, admitted to setting the fires, because he was unhappy with the apartment complex management and wanted to get people to move out.

ALERT: Arsons at Places of Worship

ALERT FOR MESA CLERGY

In the past few weeks, several churches/worship centers in Mesa have found burned or burning Bibles on their property; this is occurring overnight. If you have security, custodial staff or overnight personnel, please advise them of this situation. Make sure any camera system you have is working properly and has night vision. We are currently analyzing evidence collected.

The suspect is described as a White or Hispanic male, late teens to early 20s, average height and build, dark hair. Has been seen wearing knee length shorts, short-sleeved shirt, white gym shoes, carrying a dark backpack and wearing dark gloves. If you see this individual or anyone suspicious on your property, please call the police immediately.

Should your church/worship center experience this or any other item being burned on the property please follow the listed protocol --

IF you see something burning on your property, call 9-1-1. Extinguish it as soon as possible. If possible, move it away from any building or vegetation. After the fire is out, do NOT touch it. Keep it protected until police and fire officers arrive.

IF the item is burned and the fire is out, call 644-2211, select option 2, and report the situation. Do NOT touch anything. Keep it protected until police and fire officers arrive.

For more information, please contact Detective J. Fitzgerald at 480-644-2598.