Clues Led To Arson, Insurance Fraud Charges Against Auto Shop Owner

A DuBois man accused of torching his auto repair shop last year in hopes of cashing in on the insurance payment remains in jail, his charges bound to a higher court. John Anthony Lechiara, 51, of DuBois, is charged by state police with felony counts of arson, reckless burning or exploding, criminal mischief, and insurance fraud, as well as other misdemeanor charges. District Judge David Inzana found prima facie evidence to hold those charges to a Jefferson County Court of Common Pleas following a nearly three hour long preliminary hearing Tuesday.