A CAFE manager has been charged with torching an electrical room next to the business, causing about $150,000 in damage and forcing other stores to close.
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Rocky Pereira, 36, was arrested on Friday morning following the blaze in the early hours of last Monday.
It’s alleged the Wodonga man drove from his home before the blaze and used an accelerant to light the door to the electrical area on Stanley Street.
The 36-year-old had run the business, which was owned by his partner, for about six months.
There is no suggestion she was involved in the arson.
The court heard the cafe had between $20,000 and $30,000 in debt.
He applied for bail and told magistrate Ian Watkins he had never been in court before and was about to apply for a new job.
Police argued he was an unacceptable risk of release and may interfere with witnesses.
Magistrate Ian Watkins noted he had allegedly approached his neighbour, who provided police with CCTV footage, and there were concerns he would approach his partner if bailed.
Mr Watkins said security camera footage showed his vehicle leaving his home about 3am on the morning of the incident and returning about 3.55am.
It’s alleged he turned off the headlights as he approached the property.
The 36-year-old has denied involvement in the fire.
He was denied bail and will reappear on Monday.
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