MARION COUNTY — A felony arson charge against a 41-year-old Walnut Hill man was dismissed Tuesday in Marion County court.

Jonathon Downs pleaded guilty Tuesday to the lesser charge of misdemeanor reckless conduct. He was sentenced to 24-days in jail, with credit for 24-days served, and ordered to pay $1,237 in court costs.

Downs was arrested in December 2016, after he called 9-1-1 and told the dispatcher that he had a warrant for his arrest and wanted to be arrested. He also reportedly told the dispatcher that he was under the influence of methamphetamine, medications, and alcohol.

Upon their arrival at the home, Marion County Sheriff’s deputies found Downs’ truck was completely engulfed in flames.

A relative of Downs reportedly told deputies that he had set the fire himself and then went back inside. He was arrested on the outstanding warrant that stemmed from a 2013 civil case.
Downs was ultimately charged in Marion County Court with Class 2 felony arson and misdemeanor reckless conduct.