A man has been charged with 18 counts of arson following a series of vehicle fires in Wimborne and the surrounding area two years ago.
Multiple car fires were reported between 1am and 3am in May 2023 in the Broadstone, Wimborne and Merley areas.
A total of 18 reports were received by police relating to damage to vehicles and property.
The locations with reported incidents included Wentworth Drive, Oakley Hill, Oakley Road, Merley Way, Stour Walk, New Borough Road, Grove Road and Leigh Road.
Following initial enquiries, a local man in his 40s was arrested on suspicion of arson.
He was subsequently released on police bail.
In the months that followed, detectives from Dorset County CID led an extensive investigation to compile detailed evidence.
After liaison with the Crown Prosecution Service, the arrested man has now been charged with 18 counts of arson.
He is due to appear at Poole Magistrates’ Court on Friday 23 May 2025.
Chief Superintendent Julie Howe, Local Policing Commander for Dorset County, said: “This has been a complex investigation and following comprehensive work by detectives, we have now secured charges in this case.
“This matter will now be the subject of active court proceedings, and it would be inappropriate for us to comment any further at this stage.
“It is important that the criminal justice process is allowed to follow its course, and we would urge members of the public to refrain from speculation or online commentary while these proceedings are active.”