Alleged Arsonist Charged with Setting Fire to Homeless Man's Tent

NAPERVILLE, IL — A 71-year-old Naperville man has been charged with setting fire to a homeless man’s tent July 18.

James Povolo, of the 1300 block of Dartford Court, turned himself in to police late Tuesday afternoon, according to DuPage County State’s Attorney Robert Berlin. He has been charged with one count of arson.

Police say at around 2 p.m. July 18, Povolo approached the tent, which he knew to be empty at the time, and set fire to it, resulting in the total destruction of the tent and its contents. An investigation led by the Naperville Police Department led to Povolo.

“I am extremely proud of the work done by our detectives in this case, as well as the Fire Department personnel and their quick actions to get this scene under control,” said Naperville Police Chief Robert Marshall in a news release. “This fire was not only near a residential neighborhood, but also a gas station, which could have led to an even more serious incident.”

Povolo’s next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 30 in front of Judge Liam Brennan. He has since been released after posting $2,500 bail.