Brother and sister who set fire to a house killing 3 cats are jailed

A brother and sister who set fire to a house which killed a man’s beloved three cats have each been jailed for 21 months.

Aaron Forbes, 32, and Amanda Forbes, 34, sparked the blaze in Glasgow's Robroyston on February 28th 2022.

There was said to have been bad blood between Aaron and homeowner Gregor Jamieson. Aaron had previously lived there at the four bedroom property.

The siblings torched furniture while 52 year-old mechanic Mr Jamieson was at work and stole a safe.

Three of his four one year-old Bengal cats perished in the blaze.

An emotional Mr Jamieson told jurors: "These were, in effect, like my children and for them to be removed from this planet in a traumatic manner is disgusting."

The Forbes were both convicted at Glasgow Sheriff Court of willful fire raising.

They were also guilty of breaking into Mr Jamieson's home and theft.

Sheriff Gerard Bonnar today told them: "You were convicted of a very serious crime - setting fire to a house causing significant damage and the death of three beloved pet cats.

"The motive on the part of Aaron Forbes seems to have been revenge and this was supported by his sister.

"She supported this revenge by acting on his instructions.

"The gravity of the offences means that there is no alternative to custody which is suitable or appropriate."

Linzi McQuade, defending Aaron, of Bishopbriggs, East Dunbartonshire, told the sentencing that a "degree of immaturity and vulnerability" played a part in the offences.

Gemma Elder, defending mum-of-three Amanda, of Kirkintilloch, stated that her client was "capable of change."

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