Former Laurel Police Chief Sentenced to Life in Prison for Arson and Attempted Murder
Former Laurel Police Chief David Crawford has been sentenced to two life terms plus 75 years in prison for setting fires to three homes in Howard County and attempting to kill eight people. The sentencing took place on Tuesday, and Howard State’s Attorney Rich Gibson stated, “In light of the defendant’s age, he is not likely to breathe free air again, and we think it’s appropriate. Today, the bill came due for this defendant.”
Crawford, 71, served as Laurel’s chief from 2006 to 2010 and had previously worked for the Prince George’s County Police Department and the District Heights Police Department. The investigation into his fire-starting activities began in 2021 when authorities accused him of setting fires to approximately 11 houses, cars, and garages across several Maryland counties over a multiyear period. Investigators asserted that Crawford targeted individuals he knew, including former police colleagues, his chiropractor, and his stepson, due to grievances he had against them.
While no one was physically injured in the fires, residents had to flee their burning homes in terror and lost valuable possessions. Crawford’s convictions were related to incidents in Howard County, but he still faces trials in Montgomery County and Prince George’s County on charges of arson and attempted murder.
Crawford’s attorney, Robert Bonsib, stated that his client intends to appeal his convictions in Howard County and maintains his innocence. Bonsib described the outcome as a “sad and unfortunate ending for a man who for decades had well-served his community in law enforcement.”
During the investigation, authorities studied surveillance video that showed similar patterns of a fire-setter using gasoline. They linked multiple cases after discovering that Crawford had previous disagreements with the victims. In January 2021, a search of Crawford’s residence uncovered crucial pieces of evidence, including a list of targets.
The sentencing of Crawford brings closure to a disturbing case that has shocked the community. Despite his previous service in law enforcement, Crawford’s actions have been described as lacking basic humanity. The victims and their families can now begin to rebuild their lives after the trauma caused by Crawford’s arson and attempted murder.
What role did surveillance footage play in the investigation of Crawford’s arson activities
Former Laurel Police Chief David Crawford has been handed a severe punishment for his heinous crimes. Sentenced to two life terms plus 75 years in prison, Crawford set fire to three homes in Howard County and attempted to kill eight people. The sentencing, which occurred on Tuesday, has been seen as a necessary outcome for someone who has caused so much devastation.
At the age of 71, Crawford had an extensive career in law enforcement. He served as Laurel’s chief from 2006 to 2010 and had previously worked for the Prince George’s County Police Department and the District Heights Police Department. However, his actions have tarnished his once-respected reputation.
The investigation into Crawford’s arson activities began in 2021, when authorities accused him of setting fire to around 11 houses, cars, and garages across various counties in Maryland over a span of several years. Shockingly, he targeted people he knew, including former police colleagues, his chiropractor, and his stepson, due to personal grievances.
Fortunately, no one was physically harmed in the fires. However, residents had to flee their homes and suffered significant property damage. Crawford’s convictions relate specifically to incidents in Howard County, but he still faces additional trials in Montgomery County and Prince George’s County for charges of arson and attempted murder.
Crawford’s attorney, Robert Bonsib, has stated that his client plans to appeal the convictions in Howard County and maintains his innocence. Bonsib emphasized that this outcome is a tragic ending for a man who had dedicated years to serving his community in law enforcement.
Throughout the investigation, authorities meticulously analyzed surveillance footage that showcased a consistent pattern of the fire-starting method involving gasoline. They were able to connect multiple cases by discovering Crawford’s history of conflicts with the victims. In January 2021, a search of Crawford’s residence yielded crucial evidence, including a list of intended targets.
The sentencing of Crawford provides some closure to the distressing case that has deeply affected the community. Despite his previous role in law enforcement, his actions have been deemed inhumane and lacking basic compassion. Now, the victims and their families can begin the arduous process of rebuilding their lives after enduring the trauma caused by Crawford’s arson and attempted murder.
