A Gap man will stand trial for a rash of crimes, including setting barn fires and throwing objects at motorists, police said, causing nearly half a million dollars' damage.

Nicholas John Brown Jr., 25, waived his right to a preliminary hearing on Wednesday morning as about three dozen victims waited to testify about their loss to District Judge Isaac Stoltzfus.

First Assistant District Attorney Christopher Larsen told the group of victims they wouldn't have to testify on Wednesday. In answer to one victim's concern, Larsen said he expects Brown will remain in jail for now.

State police said the crime spree of vandalism, theft and arson took placed between October and January, across the county.

Fire marshals said Brown was connected to arson fires at two barns and a recreational vehicle, causing $450,000 in damages, as well as other smaller fires in Bart, Eden, Martic, Leacock and Paradise townships.

Brown's other alleged crimes cost victims more than $14,000, police said.

Troopers said Brown allegedly tossed bricks and rocks on vehicles on Routes 30 and 41 in Salisbury Township and Route 222 in Manheim Township. Damages totaled about $9,000.

No one was injured, even though some of the rocks and bricks went through windshields and other windows.

Also, Brown allegedly fired a rifle into a Salisbury Township barn, when a farmer was working there, police said. A cow was injured in the January incident.

His thefts included boating supplies, Christmas decorations and a fish-shaped mailbox, police said.

Brown also was charged with slashing tires and smashing windows on vehicles.


Staff writer Janet Kelley can be reached at jkelley@LNPnews.com or 481-6026.