KALISPELL – A man who prosecutors say destroyed thousands of dollars in merchandise at a Kalispell business failed to show up for a court appearance Thursday, leading to a warrant being issued for his arrest.
Arnold Wayne Deans, 45, of Kalispell, is charged with one felony count of negligent arson and one misdemeanor count of theft after a fire that happened in the early morning hours of April 19 at Rick Anderson’s Snow Jobs and Dirt Stuff on Center Street.
At what was supposed to be Deans’ arraignment hearing last Thursday, District Court Judge Amy Eddy granted the prosecution’s request for a bench warrant, which was set at $25,000.
He was jailed briefly before posting bond after his initial appearance in May.
Kalispell Police say the fire caused at least $50,000 in damage to snowmobiles, four-wheelers and other off-road vehicles parked at the property. He is also accused of trying to siphon gas from a snowmobile, leading to the blaze.
