A former Ohio University student pleaded innocent to aggravated arson for allegedly starting a fire inside a local church on May 4.
Benjamin DiPietro, 30, of Athens was arrested on May 4 for allegedly setting fire to the shroud above the crucifix at the Christ the King Church, 141 Mill St.
Judge Alan Goldsberry set his bail at $10,000 at his arraignment last week.
Law enforcement agencies were able to keep the damage to a minimum with their quick response, said Father Martin Holler of the Christ the King church. The church reopened for services a few days later.
Dipetro's lawyer, Myca Haynes, was unable to be reached for comment.
His trial is scheduled for Oct. 16 in Athens County Court of Common Pleas.
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