London man arrested in arson investigation after alleged burglary at home

LONDON, Ky. – A Kentucky man is facing charges in connection with an arson investigation.

The Kentucky State Police Post 11 says it was requested for a fire investigation on Sunday at a home located on Laurel River Church Road in London, Kentucky.

Troopers say evidence was located that the residence was burglarized before the structure was set one fire.

As a result, troopers and Constable Robert Smith responded to the scene, where authorities say they determined suspects forced their way in, disabled the alarm system and stole items worth over $10,000.

KSP says the fire was set to cover up the crime.

Authorities say many of the stolen items were located at the residence of a neighbor.

The suspect, identified as 47-year-old Billy J. Swafford of London, was charged with first-degree arson, second-degree burglary and possession of burglar tools.

Swafford was lodged in the Laurel County Detention Center. The investigation remains ongoing.