Attemped Murder, Arson Charges Filed Against Buckingham Man

A Buckingham Township man is behind bars on charges of attempted murder and arson, among others.

Authorities allege Joseph Todd, 49, assaulted his wife and then tried to burn down their home while she was inside on March 6, court records show. In addition to arson and attempted murder, Todd is charged with aggravated assault and risking catastrophe, both felonies.

According to 6ABC, the Todd set fire to his West Brandon Way home and was later found running around the property. He then ran inside and locked the door, but police gained entry and found him in the basement.

The Intelligencer reported it was the couple's child who called police shortly after 2:30 p.m. that Sunday. The child told police her parents were in a physical altercation and her father had dragged her mother, screaming, to the basement.

Todd, who was restricted from the property by a protection from abuse order, is currently in Bucks County Prison after failing to post bail, which was set at 10 percent of $250,000.

The charges were filed Wednesday and Todd was arraigned. His preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 4, court records show.