Charlotte County man faces federal felony arson charge for Chabad of Charlotte County fire

Blake Hoover, accused of setting fire to the Chabad of Charlotte County, made his first appearance in federal court. The incident occurred 10 days ago, and Hoover now faces a federal arson charge.

Hoover appeared in court in a tan jumpsuit, shackled and accompanied by marshals. The judge appointed federal defense attorney James Lapin to represent him, as Hoover could not afford an attorney. He is charged with felony arson related to the Charlotte County incident.

The Punta Gorda Police Department tracked Hoover’s car to the Chabad area using a license plate reader at the time of the fire. Evidence includes statements from Hoover’s mother, who said he expressed hatred toward Jewish people and returned home with an empty gas can and spray paint the night of the arson.

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