Firefighter Arson Trial Begins

Bob Joseph/WNBF News [file][/caption]Opening statements get underway in the arson trial of a former Endicott firefighter.

41 year old Jason Stokes is accused of torching his home with his wife and teenaged children sleeping inside in August.

Broome County District Attorney Steven Cornwell said authorities quickly determined the fire was suspicious and found containers of gasoline and other flammable substances strewn inside the house.

Prosecutors accuse Stokes of painting anti-police graffiti on his home in an effort to cover up the crime.

The wife and two teens were able to get out of the house safely.

Jury selection in Broome County Court took just one day.

If he is convicted, Stokes could be looking at up to 25 years in prison.