Man jailed for fraud and arson – Slough

Following a Thames Valley Police investigation, a man has been sentenced for fraud and arson in Slough.

Harmanpreet Barr, aged 38, of Brownsgrave Road, Hayes, was sentenced at Reading Crown Court on Monday (8/6) to three years in prison.

Barr was found guilty by unanimous jury on one count each of: attempted arson, arson and fraud by false representation.

On 7 January 2023, Barr attempted to set fire to a number of his own lorries stored within the Eurostage compound in Slough. Failing this, due to heavy rain, he tried again the following day, 8 January 2023, and set fire to several lorries along with destroying nearby property belonging to a local tyre business.

Following this, Barr submitted fraudulent insurance claims through his insurance company.

Investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Principi said, “We recognise this investigation took time, but it has resulted in justice being served.

“We would like to thank the Fire Service for their swift response and public safety efforts, particularly the fire investigator whose work was crucial to securing these convictions. We are also grateful to the insurance partners who supported the case.

“We will not tolerate criminal activity of this nature, especially where fire is used in such a dangerous and reckless way.”

RH