Port Jervis, NY – In a recent court ruling, Steve Brewer, a 39-year-old Port Jervis resident, was sentenced to two to six years in prison and ordered to pay $7,199.20 in restitution. This sentencing, announced by Orange County District Attorney David M. Hoovler on February 14, 2024, comes after Brewer’s guilty plea to third-degree arson charges.
Following his arrest, Brewer was initially released without bail due to New York State’s 2019 bail reform legislation, which limits bail settings for many offenses. This law allowed Brewer to flee to Ohio, evading capture for two years before being extradited back to face charges.
The incident, which took place on April 18, 2021, involved Brewer setting fire to a cargo container in Riverside Park. This container, utilized by the Port Jervis Youth Program, stored valuable equipment such as bikes and helmets. Brewer, who initially blamed the fire on two teenagers, later confessed to the act of arson.
District Attorney Hoovler highlighted the significant damage Brewer’s actions caused to community property and criticized the bail reform laws for complicating the apprehension process. Despite these legal obstacles, Hoovler commended the Port Jervis Police Department for their diligent work in investigating and arresting Brewer, ensuring that justice was served in this case.