Arson Ringleader Gets Almost 20 Years

The mastermind of an arson spree that did $10 million in damage to a development under construction was sentenced to nearly 20 years in federal prison.

Patrick S. Walsh was found guilty in September of conspiracy and 34 counts of arson for planning and helping set the Dec. 6, 2004, fires that destroyed or damaged more than two dozen houses at the upscale Hunters Brooke development in Indian Head.

U.S. District Judge Roger Titus described the arson as unparalleled in its scope as he sentenced Walsh, 22, to 19 years and seven months, the maximum allowed under federal sentencing guidelines.