A man accused of taking part in setting a Bedford neighbor’s house ablaze with the owner inside was declared guilty of a reduced charge Tuesday.
Christopher William Lantrip, 30, entered an Alford plea, maintaining his innocence but acknowledging the state has enough evidence to convict, in Bedford County Circuit Court. The plea has the same effect in court as a guilty plea.
The amended charge was solicitation to commit felony property damage. Judge James Updike Jr. sentenced Lantrip to five years in prison, all suspended. Lantrip was given credit for several months already served awaiting trial.