New Jersey Policeman Faces Arson Charges for Torching His Car

New Jersey prosecutors say an East Orange police officer set fire to his personal vehicle last year to defraud his auto insurance company.

In an indictment unsealed Tuesday, Kareem Spence was charged with aggravated arson, attempted theft by deception and insurance fraud. He was arrested Wednesday.

The 34-year-old South Plainfield resident has been with the force for about six years.

Acting Essex County Prosecutor Robert Laurino said Spence’s 2002 Cadillac De Ville was destroyed by fire in Irvington in May. Investigators allegedly found gasoline-soaked towels in the trunk.

Spence faces up to 25 years in prison if convicted of all charges. He is being held on $25,000 bail at the Essex County Jail. Authorities did not know if he has retained a lawyer.