LOUISA, Ky. (WMDJ) — A Lawrence County man has been indicted on arson-related charges after investigators say he intentionally set fire to two trailers on a relative’s property earlier this year.

According to court records, 71-year-old Lonnie Lee Parker, of Louisa, was indicted on charges of second-degree arson and first-degree criminal mischief.

The investigation began in March after the Blaine Volunteer Fire Department responded to reports of two trailers on fire along Finch Lane.

Witnesses reportedly provided deputies with a description of a vehicle seen near the property around the time the fires started. Deputies later located Parker and questioned him about his activities that day.

According to the arrest citation, Parker told deputies he had gone to buy a battery for his truck before setting fire to the two trailers. Investigators said Parker told them his niece wanted the trailers removed from the property and that he believed burning them would help her sell the land.

The citation states Parker admitted finding old clothing inside one of the trailers, setting the items on fire and then leaving the scene.

Authorities said the fire also caused damage to a neighboring home.

Parker was indicted earlier this month and arrested Monday. He is currently being held at the Big Sandy Regional Detention Center on a $20,000 cash bond.

*Photo courtesy of Big Sandy Regional Detention Center