LI Woman Found Guilty After Trying To Set 3 Homes On Fire: DA

HAMPTON BAYS, NY — An East Quogue woman who tried to set three Hamptons Bays homes on fire was found guilty of second-degree arson and other charges after a jury trial, Suffolk County District Attorney Ray Tierney said.

The evidence at trial established that on November 12, 2023, Amanda Burnside, 42, attempted, but ultimately failed, to start fires at two occupied homes in Hampton Bays, the DA said. Burnside succeeded in starting a fire at a third home, which was occupied at the time by four people, the DA said. At that home, Burnside poured gasoline onto a wicker bench on the front porch and then proceeded to light papers on fire, using that to ignite the gasoline-soaked bench, Tierney said.

The Southampton Town Police Department arrived at the scene, and Burnside was placed under arrest, the DA said.

On Monday, Burnside was found guilty after a jury trial heard before Acting Supreme Court Justice Steven Pilewski of one count of second-degree arson, a Class B violent felony, and two counts of second-degree attempted arson, Class C violent felonies, Tierney said.

Burnside is due back in court for sentencing on February 25 and faces up to 25 years in prison. The defendant is being represented by Melissa Aguanno.

"This case was one of the most difficult I've had in my 15-year career," Aguanno told Patch. "I really hope that Amanda gets all the help that she really needs and deserves. This really is a case involving the mental health system," she said, adding, "Pre-trial negotiations were handled in a respectful way by the DA's office."

"This defendant deliberately attempted to set three homes on fire, putting lives and property at grave risk," Tierney. "We thank the jury for holding this defendant accountable. My office remains committed to ensuring the safety of our community by prioritizing violent crime such as this."