Around the Region: Leaf Blowers Debated in Arlington, Stoneham Man Guilty of Lighting Woman on Fire

Town Meeting members in Arlington began to discuss a proposed ban on gas-powered leaf blowers Wednesday. Town Meeting member Carol Band submitted a substitute motion for Article 25 after the Board of Selectmen’s recommended vote of no action on her original article. Band’s motion would amend the town bylaws to prohibit the use of gas-powered leaf blowers on private property in Arlington.  In her presentation Band said gas-powered leaf blowers create noise pollution, are a health risk and are bad for the environment. -John Waller

A Malden man pleaded guilty Thursday to obstruction of justice and firearms charges in connection to the shooting death of a Stoneham man in Malden on Labor Day weekend in 2010. John Genreazio, 22, of Malden, was sentenced to 18 months in state prison for three charges of obstruction of justice, illegal possession of a firearm and illegal possession of ammunition, according to a press release from the office of Middlesex District Attorney Gerry Leone. Upon release, he will serve an additional 18 months probation. -Chris Caesar

Johnny D's, one of Davis Square's popular restaurants and music venues, is working to open a new cafe and bakery up the street. -Chris Orchard

A Stoneham man pleaded guilty Thursday to charges that he set his girlfriend on fire in June 2011, according to a press release by Middlesex District Attorney Gerry Leone. Edouard Pierre-Charles, 28, pleaded guilty to charges of mayhem, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, armed assault with the intent to murder and resisting arrest, according to the release. Middlesex Superior Court Judge Maureen Hogan sentenced Pierre-Charles to 8-10 years in state prison with 15 years of probation. -Mark Ouellette

A Connecticut man was taken into custody Wednesday, arrested in connection with the Chantau Chau, 20, of New London, Conn. was arrested in New London on charges of armed carjacking, assault with intent to murder, assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, and motor vehicle larceny.  According to authorities, was sitting in his car outside the movie theater waiting for a friend on the night of Sept. 6. The defendant allegedly approached the car. Northrup told police he thought Chau wanted a cigarette and he reached down to give him one. Chau then stabbed Northrup, allege authorities. "The victim then exited the car through the passenger door and fled across the parking lot," said Leone in a statement. "The defendant allegedly followed and stabbed the victim multiple times, including in the neck. Chau then fled the scene in the victim’s car." -Sara Jacobi