James Rapoza, 47, to submit to police taking prints and photos of his body after he allegedly torched a family home
A northern NSW man who police say was seen jumping from a window of a home he is alleged to have set on fire must now endure an invasive forensic procedure behind bars.
Regional News
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A northern New South Wales man who police say was seen jumping from a window of a home he is alleged to have set on fire must now endure an invasive forensic procedure behind bars.
James Rapoza, 47, appeared via audiovisual link before Magistrate Michael Dakin in Lismore Local Court on Monday.
He is facing charges of damaging property by fire more than $15,000 (DV), two counts of stalking/intimidating intending fear/physical harm (DV) and breaching an apprehended violence order.
Police will allege on Thursday, November 28, 2024 Rapoza attended a home at Muldoon Road, Caniaba, 6km from Lismore where a woman and children were present before entering the home and lighting a fire inside.
Emergency services were called to the address to find the home well alight about 4.35pm that afternoon.
Fire and Rescue NSW Lismore, Hazmat specialists as well as Rural Fire Service bulk watertankers and crews took two hours to extinguish the blaze which destroyed the home.
NSW Police alleges the 47-year-old man lit the fire in the property and state he jumped from the building, suffering injuries in the fall.
A woman and several others living at the home were not injured and left the home before the fire ignited.
At court, police prosecutor Brett Gradisnik requested a forensic procedure and “some photos” on Rapoza.
Rapoza muttered he would resist any attempts before Mr Dakin told him not to.
“Reasonable force can be used Mr Rapoza,” Me Dakin said.
Police will supervise a self administered swab from Rapoza along with hand, finger, and toe prints.
Mr Dakin authorised the procedure that will also include photographs of Rapoza’s body.
“Police will be attending you at the correctional centre,” Mr Dakin said.
No pleas have yet been entered.
Rapoza was ordered not to resist the procedure, refused bail and ordered to reappear in Lismore Local Court for charge certification on April 16.
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Originally published as James Rapoza, 47, to submit to police taking prints and photos of his body after he allegedly torched a family home
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