The man accused of burning historic Glasgow church, endangering nun
Ryan Haggerty will spend more than five years in prison for arson, along with five years of probation.
He was sentenced to more than 5 years in prison for setting fire to the historic church of St. Simon in Glasgow. The 2021 fire razed the building and endangered a sleeping nun in an adjoining building.
According to the BBC, Ryan Haggerty admitted to lighting the fire on July 28, 2021. Haggerty was 26 years old at the time of the fire. About a month after the fire, investigators arrested Haggerty.
The fire destroyed the foundation of the 19th-century building. The High Court in Glasgow noted that the damage would cost "several million pounds" to repair. However, the court was particularly unhappy with how the fire endangered a 79-year-old nun.
Sister Mary Ross was believed to be sleeping in the rectory next door when the fire started. Sister Ross woke up to the smell of smoke and was able to escape with the assistance of the fire brigade. However, Sister Ross fainted, not from smoke inhalation, but from shock at the destruction of the church.
Judge Lord Mulholland told Haggerty he was fortunate not to face murder charges. In his ruling, the judge commented:
“The church you burn is clearly an indispensable place of worship for those who need it most. If it could be rebuilt, it would cost millions of dollars. You put the life of a 79-year-old nun sleeping there in jeopardy and fortunately you don't face murder charges."
Mulholland went on to explain that he felt an "extended sentence" was appropriate due to Haggerty's history of "intentionally setting fire." He will now serve a sentence of five years and three months in prison, with five years of probation upon his release.
For his part, Haggerty said he had no idea Sister Ross was nearby and that he never intended to put her in danger. His lawyer said:
“Haggerty expressed remorse and shame for his conduct and he has no malice or aversion to the Catholic Church and recognizes the significant financial impact of his actions.”