A Tunbridge Wells man who treated a life-threatening fire like a planned exit strategy has been locked up. Ryan James, 41, didn’t just set fire to his bedroom and living room; he locked the door behind him, leaving neighbours to scramble for their lives.
While James was safely away—having already stashed his valuables in a local gym locker—brave neighbours were trying to kick down his door to “save” him.
He was caught two days later wandering the town centre. James was charged and pleaded guilty at Maidstone Crown Court to arson being reckless as to whether life was endangered.
On Friday 19 December 2025, he was given an extended prison sentence with a custodial element of six years and three months. He will then have to serve a further three years on licence when he becomes eligible for parole.
Detective Constable Celia King said:
‘This was a reckless and vindictive act that endangered the lives of everyone in the building. James selfishly locked the door behind him, making it harder to stop the fire and causing further damage. His courageous neighbours risked their own lives to save him, thinking he may have been trapped inside. Thankfully, there were no injuries and I’m glad to see that James will suffer the consequences of his actions.’