A man from Port Rowan who admitted to starting a series of fires that alarmed residents in Norfolk County in 2024 was sentenced in Simcoe on Monday.
Chad Reimer, 44, received a year of house arrest followed by a year with a strict nightly curfew as explained by Justice Gethin Edward.
“It goes without saying that arson is one of the most serious offences in our criminal code,” the judge stated during the hearing.
“The offence (carries a penalty) of up to 14 years.”
However, the judge noted that an extensive investigation revealed Reimer drove his co-accused to each of the 11 fire locations but did not ignite any fires himself.
“(He) was still clearly a party of the offence and just as culpable,” Edward mentioned.
The judge referenced a psychiatric report indicating Reimer faced several challenges, including “significant cognitive impairments.”
He pleaded guilty to two counts of arson and one count of driving under the influence. Reimer had no prior criminal record and, upon his arrest, quickly confessed to police.
The fires occurred in barns and out-buildings between November 2024 and January 2025, leading to community efforts where police, agencies, and locals worked together to find those responsible.
“The community in Norfolk was justifiably concerned about an arsonist on the loose,” said the judge.
Reimer caught police attention after an alert citizen spotted his red F-150 pickup truck near one of the fires.
The police traced Reimer’s name and discovered he allegedly enjoyed “chasing fires.”
Eventually, he was found sitting in his truck close to an early-stage fire on Lynn Valley Road in Haldimand County.
“No one was in the (11) structures, thus there was no death or injury,” stated Edward. “The role of the accused was to drive his red pickup truck to each location with the co-accused as the passenger.”
The judge expressed that Reimer has “some very real cognitive impairments” and mentioned that “no jail or prison is equipped to deal” with his issues.
However, Edward pointed out that his mother and surety have shown they can help keep him grounded while his “small tight-knit community of Port Rowan” has stepped up for support.
In letters from community members supporting him, Reimer was described as someone who is helpful “only limited by his bail restrictions” when it comes to volunteering.
Since being arrested on Feb. 21, 2025, Reimer has adhered strictly to house arrest without breaking any rules.
Bail terms are now effective; Edward felt confident that a community service order would be fitting.
Reimer must complete 60 hours of community service while staying home except for specific hours each week for groceries or other essentials. He’s also allowed out for work, school or counseling sessions.
After one year, he’ll have a curfew from 10 p. m. until 6 a. m.
No going within 50 meters of fire sites unless just passing by them or possessing any weapons is allowed either.
For admitting guilt regarding driving while intoxicated above legal limits, Reimer received a $1,500 fine along with a two-year driving ban.
A request from his lawyer for him to get back his red pickup truck-impounded last year-was denied by the judge.
“ This court’s view is it was an integral part of the arsons and will be forfeited to the Crown for destruction or sale.”
An individual named Matthew Smith, age 31 also faces similar charges but they have not yet been proven in court; His case continues later this month.
SGamble
