Lincoln County Deputies Charge Alleged “Porch Pyro”

In today’s world, porch pirates are everywhere. If you’re not familiar with the term, they’re the ones who troll neighborhoods looking for packages delivered to the door. Typically they dash to the doorstep, take the package and flee.

This story is about a “Porch Pyro”

A Lincoln County man has been charged with setting his uncle’s porch on fire. 44-year-old Jeffery Van Prater was arrested Monday , April 13 by Lincoln County Sheriff’s Deputies. He’s charged with first-degree arson.

On March 20, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office received a report of damage to property at an address on Red Oak Lane in Iron Station. The homeowner had video of his nephew, Jeffery Prater, setting his front porch on fire.

Upon further investigation, a Lincoln County Sheriff’s Detective determined the fire was the result of arson and warrants were issued for Prater. Due to him being homeless, authorities were not able to find him immediately. Eventually he was arrested Monday and booked in the Harven A. Crouse Detention Center under a no bond hold.

Rob Eastwood-WHKY contributed to this story