ITHACA, NY (607NewsNow) – An Ithaca man is accused of arson.

According to the Ithaca Police Department (IPD), the suspect, Steven Swavely, recently set two fires at the Asteri Apartment Building, including one on May 31 and another on June 1, a blaze that forced the evacuation of the building.

Swavely was arrested just after noon today in the 100 block of East Green Street. IPD says a bystander released Swavely’s dog during the arrest, and the animal attacked officers, civilians, and Swavely himself. Several people sustained minor injuries. Swavely was taken into custody after another bystander secured the animal.

Swavely is charged with first and second-degree felony arson and misdemeanor resisting arrest. He was arraigned and taken to Tompkins County Jail. The dog was turned over to the SPCA.

Anyone who has information relevant to the investigation or who may have witnessed the crimes is asked to contact the Ithaca Police Department.

IPD CONTACT

Dispatch: 607-272-3245

Administration: 607-272-9973

Tipline: 607-330-0000

Anonymous Email Tip Address: www.cityofithaca.org/ipdtips