Lacie Jillian Frazee was sentenced to a year in prison and two years’ probation upon her release, for three counts of arson, on Tuesday morning at Pictou provincial court.
Frazee, a 26-year old from Trenton, previously underwent a mental health assessment at East Coast Forensic Hospital, after being charged with three counts of arson in January. She was convicted of setting fires that damaged a home and a travel trailer on Phillip Street in Trenton.
Frazee will serve concurrent year-long sentences for the three counts of arson. Judge Del Atwood followed the joint recommendation of Frazee’s lawyer and the Crown calling for a sentence that reflected a credit she earned for being in remand for 135 days.
Frazee was also ordered by Atwood to not contact Susan Frazee, Tom Mullins and Betty Riggs.
Frazee, who shed occasional tears throughout the proceedings, declined an opportunity to speak during her sentencing.
As part of her sentence, Frazee was restricted from possessing matches, lighters or any other incendiary devices. She also had a number of weapons prohibitions relating to firearms imposed upon her.
Atwood noted that the sentence he ordered was done in the name of “denunciation and deterrence,” since such offences are serious. Atwood said the acts Frazee committed were potentially life-threatening to the public, and first responders – even when the arson involved unoccupied buildings and structures.
Atwood acknowledged that the sentencing took into account the early guilty pleas Frazee entered, and the efforts she has made to seek counselling and support. Frazee has a minimal prior record, with one other offence in 2016 for which she was granted a conditional discharge.
“I encourage you to pursue the steps you’ve already taken,” said Atwood, referring to her counselling, before she was led out of the courtroom.
