Augusta firefighter charged with arson

An Augusta volunteer firefighter is charged with arson for allegedly enlisting an Osseo teenager to start three outdoor fires so he could earn $8 an hour fighting the blazes.

The Leader-Telegram in Eau Claire says 29-year-old Joseph Thalacker was charged with four felonies Monday in Eau Claire County District Court. His alleged accomplice was also charged with two counts of arson.

Augusta-Bridge Creek Fire Chief Ken Zich says Thalacker was dismissed from the department last week. He calls the allegations "unthinkable."

Thalacker does not have a listed phone number and could not be reached for comment.

---

Information from: Leader-Telegram

(Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.