Despite Restraining Order, 50-Year-Old Sets Fire to Ex-Lover's Store, Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison

Court: "Meticulous crime by mixing diesel and other substances in oil before the offense"

A man in his 50s who set fire to a store operated by his ex-girlfriend despite a court-issued restraining order was sentenced to 15 years in prison.

The Cheonan Branch of the Daejeon District Court, 1st Criminal Division (Presiding Judge Jeon Gyeong-ho), on the 15th sentenced Mr. A (57), who was detained and indicted on charges including attempted murder, to 15 years in prison. In addition, he was ordered to complete 40 hours of a stalking treatment program and to wear an electronic location tracking device for 10 years.

Mr. A is accused of pouring oil and setting fire to a store in Cheonan operated by his ex-girlfriend, Ms. B (in her 60s), last October.

Ms. B suffered second-degree burns over her entire body, and employees and customers inhaled smoke and were transported to the hospital.

Although Mr. A had been subject to a court-issued restraining order due to stalking Ms. B, he committed the crime.

The court stated, "The defendant knew that oil alone does not ignite easily and meticulously prepared for the crime by purchasing and mixing diesel and thinner before the act. Considering that the victim suffered second-degree burns over her entire body from the fire and her life was threatened, it appears that there was sufficient intent to kill."

Furthermore, the court said, "The defendant refers to the victim as a demon to evade responsibility and has made no effort to restore the damage. Considering that the victim has expressed fear of retaliation and is pleading for severe punishment, these factors were taken into account."