BISMARCK, N.D. – The former principal accused of setting fire to his Christian high school in Dickinson, North Dakota, says he was not read his rights prior to interviews with officers, and some of his statements were coerced.
The Bismarck Tribune reports that 30-year-old Thomas Sander pleaded not guilty to arson and endangering by fire. His trial is set for July 23. Sander is scheduled to appear in court again on July 1.
His attorneys have asked Judge William Herauf to suppress statements made by Sander during two interrogations with Dickinson police. Prosecutors have not yet responded to the motion.
Sander is accused of starting a fire that destroyed Trinity High School on March 3 and endangering the life of religion teacher Robert Storey, who lived in an apartment at the school. Sander is free on $50,000 bond but is under the custody of his father and his travel is restricted.
