NYPD cruiser set ablaze by repeat offender out on parole

By Joanna Putman
Police1

NEW YORK — A convicted arsonist out on parole set fire to an NYPD cruiser, the New York Post reported.

James Figueroa, 31, has been arrested on suspicion of arson after he allegedly crawled under an NYPD cruiser and lit a fire that burned the driver’s side door, according to the report.

The door and ballistic panel had fire damage, while the driver’s side window was shattered, damage that will cost more than $1,500, according to a criminal complaint obtained by the Post.

The Nov. 18 incident was Figueroa’s second offense involving an NYPD vehicle since his release from state prison on parole four months ago.

He was arrested Nov. 9 for smashing the windshield of an NYPD utility van but was released from jail shortly after because his criminal mischief charge was not eligible for bail under state justice reforms, according to the report.

In the arraignment for the Nov. 18 incident, Figueroa’s bail was set at $5,000 cash or $10,000 bond.