A TEENAGER has been given a suspended jail term after setting fire to two barns in south Bucks.

Jasen Hammond had his 12 month prison term suspended for two years after pleading guilty to two counts of arson when he appeared at Aylesbury Crown Court on Monday.

The 18-year-old, formerly of Hillview Road, High Wycombe, but now living in Wood End Gardens, Ealing, torched a barn in Bockmer Lane, Medmenham, on June 19 2010 and a second in Wycombe Road, Marlow, on February 25 2010.

As well as being given a suspended prison sentence, Hammond has been given a 24 month supervision order and a residential requirement order forbidding him from going to Medmenham or Marlow Bottom.

Det Con Tim Robins, based at High Wycombe police station, said: “This result follows a lengthy investigation and dedicated partnership working between Thames Valley Police and Buckinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service.

“Fires started deliberately, even in remote locations, can quickly spread out of control and present a real danger to members of the public. Hammond must now pay the consequences of his actions.”

Karen Lock, Arson Reduction Officer for Bucks Fire and Rescue Service, said: “I hope this sentence sends out a clear message that people who choose to behave in this way will be brought to justice.

“Arson is a very serious matter and the sentence reflects this. Fire and smoke can so easily kill and injure, or damage property. Anyone who is contemplating setting fires deliberately and committing arson should take heed that society will not tolerate this.

“We will continue to work tirelessly with police and other agencies in order to prevent and detect arsonists and bring offenders to justice in order to create safer communities.”