A former soldier has been jailed for four years after attempting to set fire to his elderly neighbor's motorbike using petrol, a cigarette lighter, and a blowtorch. Gary Bohanna, 55, poured gasoline over the vehicle parked outside the home of 70-year-old Gerard Bennett on March 26 in Everton, Liverpool.
The attack occurred following a series of disputes between the neighbors over issues including a gazebo, loud music, and motorbike parts left in the garden. Bohanna's attempt to start the fire was interrupted when Mr. Bennett smelled the petrol and discovered Bohanna leaning over the garden fence with the ignition tools.
Liverpool Crown Court heard that Bohanna, who has a history of violence and alcohol abuse and suffers from PTSD stemming from his military service, had previously threatened to burn down Mr. Bennett's home if convicted. A doctor who assessed Bohanna described him as dangerous, and a pre-sentence report concluded he posed a very high risk of causing serious harm.
Bohanna pleaded guilty to attempted arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered. During sentencing, Judge Robert Trevor-Jones noted the potential for devastating consequences given the motorbike's proximity to Mr. Bennett's bedroom window. While acknowledging Bohanna's PTSD as a mitigating factor, the judge highlighted his history of non-compliance with court orders and a tendency towards aggression, particularly when drinking.
Despite Bohanna's defense stating he had made progress in custody, the judge determined he continued to pose a significant danger and imposed an extended sentence. In addition to the four-year prison term, Bohanna received a four-year license period due to his dangerousness and a six-year restraining order prohibiting contact with Mr. Bennett.