GhLinks Media
A man named Paul Harwood, 42, and a woman, Zara Kasory, 32, both without a fixed address, have been accused of arson with intent linked to a fire that erupted in the shed at the constituency office of Mike Freer, the Conservative Member of Parliament representing North Finchley and Golders Green.
The incident occurred on Long Lane in North London during the late hours of Christmas Eve.
The individuals faced additional charges, accused of arson without intent concerning a separate fire behind a nearby restaurant on the same night, around 11 pm.
Police were called at 7:06 pm on Sunday, 24 December by the London Fire Brigade following a blaze at the office on Ballards Lane, N3.
The fire was put out.
An investigation was carried out by detectives from the North West Command Unit CID.
Police are aware of widespread reporting and concern in the community and can confirm the incident involving Mr Freer’s office is not being treated as a hate crime.
Mr Freer has been informed.
Statement from Police
A statement from the Metropolitan Police read: ‘Paul Harwood, 42, and Zara Kasory, 32, both of no fixed address, were arrested on Wednesday, 3 January and have been charged with arson with intent.
‘They have further been charged with one count of arson without intent in relation to a fire at the rear of a restaurant in Long Lane, N3 at around 11pm the same night. There were no reported injuries in either incident.
‘Both are due to appear at Willesden Magistrates’ Court this morning, Thursday, 4 January.
‘Police were called at 19:06hrs on Sunday, 24 December by the London Fire Brigade following a fire at the office in Ballards Lane, N3. The fire was put out.
‘An investigation was carried out by detectives from the North West Command Unit CID.
‘Police are aware of widespread reporting and concern in the community and can confirm the incident involving Mr Freer’s office is not being treated as a hate crime. Mr Freer has been informed.’
Anyone with information that could assist police is asked to call 101 and quote CAD4971/24Dec.
