Security guard admits lighting Feilding fires

File photo / NZ Herald

A security guard employed to patrol Feilding's town centre went on to set fire to six of the town's businesses

Richard David Elliott, 26, who has pleaded guilty to lighting six fires around the Manawatu town this year worked as a security guard for ADT Armourguard when he lit the blazes, the Manawatu Standard reported.

One of his tasks was to patrol the central business district on foot to protect the town's businesses, in a scheme organised by Feilding Promotion.

Manager Helen Worboys confirmed it had a contract with Armourguard, but that was now under review.

"We're very disappointed and we've told [Armourguard] that."

Elliott's five-month arson spree included the gutting of the Rome/Studio 31 building in Manchester Square and two blazes at the old hall behind the Feilding Baptist Church. He also lit fires at the Wilkes Trading Company building and a toilet block.

Armourguard, in a statement, said it was concerned and disappointed to hear of Elliott's offending, and it had assisted police with their investigation.

"At the time of employment, the now former employee passed all required police checks."

Elliott's employment had been terminated for reasons unrelated to the offending and before the company knew of the arson charges, Armourguard said.

Manawatu Mayor Ian McKelvie said it was unbelievable that Elliott abused his duty to protect Feilding businesses.

"I suppose if you want to light a fire, there's nothing like being on the scene first."

Elliott is in custody until he is sentenced on August 25.

- NZPA