Baxter v. State

Banke, Chief Judge.

Ruben Cleveland Baxter appeals his convictions of two counts of arson in the first degree.

The appellant operated a restaurant and lounge known as “Trader Bick’s” in a shopping center owned by University Plaza, Inc. On October 19, 1982, a fire damaged both the premises and contents of Trader Bick’s, resulting in the appellant’s receipt of more than $70,000 in fire insurance benefits. After the premises were repaired and the contents replaced, he reopened the facility under the new name of “Smuggler’s Cove.” On April 10, 1983, another fire caused substantial damage to…