Lexington serial arson suspect changes plea

LEXINGTON, Ky. (WKYT) - A serial arson suspect in Lexington has changed his plea.

Police say Robert Stevens set a dozen fires in 2017 and 2018.

All were at homes on Goodloe and Warnock streets in Lexington’s east end, near Stevens’ home.

Two of the fires were so bad they destroyed the homes involved.

Stevens originally pleaded not guilty. Thursday morning, Stevens pleaded guilty but mentally ill on eight of the charges.

He told the judge that, at the time, the devil was telling him to set these fires, but that he doesn’t listen to the devil anymore. His attorney told the judge that Stevens had undergone psych evaluations during this trial process.

His sentencing will be on March 2.

Stevens faces up to 10 years in prison.