Arsonist jailed for three years after setting fire outside Rochester comic shop
The 31-year-old had recently received a suspended sentence for a similar offence
A man has been jailed for three years after setting fire outside a comic book shop in Rochester, causing significant damage to the High Street store.
The arson attack took place at around 5am on Tuesday 26th August 2025. CCTV footage reviewed by police showed the culprit watching as the fire took hold before leaving the scene.
Investigators identified the arsonist as 31-year-old Zygimantas Dranseika, who had received a suspended sentence just two months earlier for a similar offence.
Dranseika, of no fixed address, was arrested two days after the incident. On Friday 30th January 2026, he was sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court to three years in prison for arson with recklessness as to whether life was endangered, alongside breach of his suspended sentence.
Damage and police response
The fire caused extensive damage to the exterior of the comic book shop, although fortunately no injuries were reported.
Investigating officer Police Constable Sophie Lawrie responded to the sentencing:
“Dranseika has proven himself to be fascinated by fire, putting his unhealthy obsession before the welfare and livelihoods of other people,” Lawrie said.
“His offending caused considerable financial damage and it’s very fortunate no one was harmed by the blaze. Medway is a safer place now that he is behind bars.”
Dranseika pleaded guilty to the offence during a court hearing in November.