Dyersburg, Tenn.–A real-life Grinch was arrested on multiple charges after setting fire to a Christmas tree and a child’s presents. Thankfully, the story has a happy ending when the Dyersburg Police Department’s Community Changer stepped in and replaced all of the child’s presents, plus giving a few extra gifts.
The incident began around 12:30 a.m. Sunday December 18 when Dyersburg police were called to Greentree Apartments in reference to a disturbance.
When officers arrived, a man later identified as James Walker, age 25, of Dyersburg, fled on foot from the officer. Following a short foot pursuit, Walker was apprehended.
According to the press release, Officers learned from a neighbor that Walker was observed going in and out of an apartment carrying items and placing them into his car. It was discovered that Walker had allegedly removed some items from the residence, wrapped the Christmas tree in a child’s blanket, and set the tree on fire along with the presents.
Officers also observed that a window had been opened to vent the fire, and the apartment’s smoke detector had been covered. The resident was not at home at the time of the incident, however did return home after being informed of the fire.
The victim reports that Walker was an acquaintance, and earlier in the day the victim, her brother, and Walker were in involved in an altercation.
Walker is charged with aggravated burglary, public intoxication, resisting arrest, aggravated arson, simple possession, fail to appear out of Dyersburg City Court, and is being held for Pemiscot County, Missouri for active warrants.
The Dyersburg Police Department’s Community Changer stepped in and replaced all of the child’s presents that were damaged, in addition to a few extra gifts.
Community Changer is a community outreach initiative that was developed by the DPD to enhance police and community relationships by improving quality of life, and public safety through civility, mentoring, and community policing. DPD’s Community Changer is supported and funded by our community through donations and fundraisers.