A 28-year-old man is facing a significant prison sentence after pleading guilty to a deliberate arson attack on the constituency office of Labour MP Sharon Hodgson.
Michael Joyce admitted to one count of arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered during a hearing at Newcastle Crown Court. The fire, which was started on the evening of 17th May this year, targeted the politician's base in Concord, Washington, Tyne and Wear.
The court heard how the blaze caused substantial damage to the property, requiring a major emergency service response. Fire crews battled the flames to prevent them from spreading to neighbouring buildings.
Mrs. Hodgson, the Labour MP for Washington and Sunderland West, was not present in the office at the time of the incident. The motive behind the attack remains unclear, though the severity of the charge suggests the act potentially endangered lives.
Judge Julie Clemitson adjourned the case for the preparation of pre-sentence reports. Michael Joyce, of no fixed abode, was remanded in custody and is scheduled to be sentenced at the same court on 25th October.
This incident has raised serious concerns about the security of elected officials and their staff, highlighting the very real threats they can face while serving their communities.
