Suffolk County District Attorney Raymond A. Tierney today announced that Amanda Burnside, 42, of East Quogue, was found guilty after a jury trial of Arson in the Second Degree and other related charges, for attempting to set three homes on fire in Hampton Bays in November 2023.
“This defendant deliberately attempted to set three homes on fire, putting lives and property at grave risk,” said District Attorney 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.”
The evidence at trial established that on November 12, 2023, Burnside attempted, but ultimately failed, to start fires at two occupied homes in Hampton Bays. Burnside succeeded in starting a fire at a third home which was occupied at the time by four people. 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. The Southampton Town Police Department arrived on scene, and Burnside was placed under arrest.
On January 27, 2025, Burnside was found guilty after a jury trial heard before Acting Supreme Court Justice Steven Pilewski of one count of Arson in the Second Degree, a Class B violent felony, and two counts of Attempted Arson in the Second Degree, Class C violent felonies.
Burnside is due back in court for sentencing on February 25, 2025, and faces up to 25 years in prison. The defendant is being represented by Melissa Aguanno, Esq.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Jonathan Cappiello and Tara O’Donnell of the Major Crime Bureau, and the investigation was conducted by Detectives Michael Algozzino and Ryan Hughes of the Southampton Town Police Department.
Criminal complaints and indictments are merely accusatory instruments. Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. No one is above the law.