Peterborough man set fire to his bedroom to get council house
John Hodson had set fire to his mattress in his bedroom at his dad's house
Last updated 8th Sep 2025
A man from Peterborough purposely set fire to his own bedroom in an attempt to get a council property.
John Hodson, who's 36-years-old, pleaded guilty to arson with recklessness and was sentenced to two years and nine months in prison.
Hodson had set fire to his mattress in his bedroom at his dad's house on 15th April 2025.
The fire reportedly spread quick and the fire service was called after attempts to put it out by another person in the house.
There were no reported injuries.
A Cambridgeshire police spokesperson said: "John Hodson, of Stanford Walk, Netherton, Peterborough, set fire to the mattress in his room with a lighter at 7.30am on 15 April.
"The fire quickly got out of control and a lodger threw a bucket of water over it but realised the fire service was needed.
"The room filled with thick smoke and Hodson’s father was coughing when he opened the door. A 999-call was made to the fire service, and no-one was hurt in the incident.
"The room was covered in soot and ash and sustained fire damage to the floor, walls and furniture.
"Hodson pleaded guilty to arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered at Peterborough Crown Court on Thursday (4 September)."
Detective Constable Robert Wallis said: “Hodson is extremely fortunate that no one was seriously harmed in this reckless act - he needs to reflect deeply on the consequences of his actions.
“It’s clear that he requires mental health support, and I hope this sentence marks the beginning of him getting the help he needs."