Man Arrested in Connection with Menlo Fire

On August 3rd, a member of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King’s Fire Investigations Unit was requested by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office to assist in a fire investigation on Riverhaven Lane in Menlo. The fire occurred at approximately 10:20 p.m. and completely destroyed the 43-year-old, 1630-square-foot home. Mr. Robert Swearinger, 37, was charged as a result of the incident.

“The fire originated in the basement of the structure while four people, including the suspect, were home,” said Commissioner King. “The suspect is being charged with Arson in the 1st Degree, Criminal Damage to Property, Aggravated Cruelty to Animals, and Family Violence.”

Commissioner King’s Fire Investigation Unit assisted the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office with this matter. The suspect is being held in the Chattooga County Jail.

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The mission of the Office of the Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner is to protect Georgia families by providing access to vital insurance products and safe buildings through fair regulation that creates economic opportunities for all Georgians