Nelson police arrested two men Saturday in the Front and Poplar streets area after responding to a small fire near a power pole and a nearby shoplifting incident.
Calls about the fire came in first at around 8 a.m.
Both police and fire fighters responded and found a burnt tree leaning against protective covering on a support wire attached to the pole. A small fire on the ground was extinguished.
Witnesses helped police identify a 40-year-old man, who was arrested nearby for mischief to property. He was later released pending a court appearance.
Police said the damaged property belongs to Nelson Hydro and that the fire caused about $1,000 in damage.
“Nelson Police would like to thank the witnesses who remained at the scene and assisted, contributing to the arrest of a suspect, who is now facing charges,” said Inspector Jason Jewkes.
A few hours later, officers located a 33-year-old man near the same area pushing a shopping cart containing items that were reportedly stolen from a local grocery store. He was arrested for theft under $5,000.
Police also executed three outstanding endorsed warrants from another jurisdiction. The man was later released with conditions, including that he not return to the store, and was issued an appearance notice related to the warrants.
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