BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — A judge ordered Courtland Renford, the man accused of starting a fire inside Buffalo City Hall on May 30, to be released to a family member for home confinement as he awaits trial.
Renford is accused of starting the fire following a protest in response to the death of George Floyd.
The attorney for Renford submitted a motion for release Monday afternoon, under a "changes in circumstances" submission that listed the mother of Renford's sister as the person who would be accountable for him on release. The motion indicates Renford would live with his father.
In addition to the change in circumstance, Renford's attorney also submitted evidence showing the damage inside City Hall. In court documents, the attorney says, "it is my belief that the Government stated that there were thousands of dollars in damage to the area in which the fire was posited in Buffalo City Hall. I have attached an exhibit which shows that this may not be true."
Renford faces state charges that carry a maximum sentence of 3-15 years in prison, and federal charges with a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison upon conviction.
The judge ruled in favor of Renford, allowing him to live with his father upon release on $20,000 bond. Renford was ordered to be on "home incarceration" as motions continue in the case. Renford's attorney says he could be released on Friday. Oral arguments are scheduled to being on September 3 at 2 p.m.
