Philip Jordan from Pittsfield, who was wanted in connection with several fires set in the city on Saturday was arraigned in a Vermont courtroom on Monday afternoon.

Jordan, 58, was arraigned on a fugitive of justice charge and is still facing three counts of burning a dwelling house. Fires were set at homes on Appleton Avenue -- which was his own -- Ridge Avenue, Fort Hill Avenue and Brown Street. Jordan was arrested Sunday afternoon at the Vermont/Canadian border by US Customs and Border Patrol agents.

A not guilty plea was entered on Jordan's behalf and bail was set at $25,000. The Court continued the case pending an examination determine Jordan's competency to participate in court proceedings regarding his fugitive status.

Quade Rocke, Jordan's son, posted to social media over the weekend asking the community to not pass judgement on his father.

"My father is very mentally ill at the moment," Rocke posted.

"Please don’t jump to your own conclusions and slander his name. He is struggling extremely hard and truly isn’t himself anymore. It’s been absolutely heartbreaking to me for quite some time and all I ask is everyone (be) respectful and understanding."

According to a report from the Berkshire Eagle, Rocke said that he had been reaching out to mental outreach centers -- both in Pittsfield and in Vermont -- to try to help his father. Rocke stated that he was unsuccessful in his attempts.

The investigation of the fires is still ongoing by members of the Pittsfield Police and Fire Departments, along with State Troopers assigned to the Office of the Fire Marshal. More charges could be pending as a result.

 

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