Ithaca Police have arrested a man in connection to two recent arson fires at the Asteri Apartments on East Green Street.
Officers located 37-year-old Steven Swavely shortly after noon Tuesday in the 100 block of East Green Street and attempted to take him into custody. Police say Swavely resisted arrest, and during the struggle, a bystander released his dog. The dog then attacked multiple people — including officers, civilians, and even Swavely himself. Several individuals were treated for minor injuries. Another bystander was able to secure the dog.
Swavely was eventually taken into custody. He and one officer were evaluated for their injuries and released.
Swavely is facing two felony counts of second-degree arson and a misdemeanor charge of resisting arrest. He was arraigned and remanded to the Tompkins County Jail. His dog has been turned over to the SPCA.
The arson incidents happened on May 31st and June 1st at the Asteri Apartments. The Ithaca Fire Department assisted with the investigation.
Anyone with information about the fires is asked to contact Ithaca Police.
