Crime & Safety

New Hyde Park Man Charged with Upstate Arson

Lance Muckenhaupt allegedly burned brush that led to destruction of acreage and structures.

A New Hyde Park man has been arrested on arson charges in Ulster County.

Detectives from the Ulster County Sheriff’s Office report that Lance G. Muckenhaupt, 56, was taken into custody in connection with an investigation into the Tamarack Lodge fire that occurred on April 7.

According to police, Muckenhaupt allegedly burning brush on the property of the old Tamarack Lodge without a permit. A ban on any open burning was also in place until May 15.

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Muckenhaupt was reportedly unable to keep the fire contained and numerous buildings were destroyed both on the old Tamarack property as well as structures on adjacent properties. In all, approximately 30 structures were damaged or destroyed and numerous acres of woodland were also destroyed.

The full charges are as follows:

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  • Arson 4th degree (2 counts – E Felony)
  • Setting a Fire Without Clearing Area (Misdemeanor – ECL)
  • Burning Without A Permit (Misdemeanor – ECL)
  • Setting a Fire That Endangers Property (Misdemeanor – ECL)
  • Open Burning During Statewide Burning Ban (Misdemeanor – ECL)

Muckenhaupt was arrested in White Plains and transported to Ulster County where he was charged with fourth degree arson and several misdemeanors of the Environmental Conservation Law by the Department of Environmental Conservation Police. Detectives were assisted by the Ulster County Arson Task Force, Department of Environmental Conservation Police and the NYSP in the investigation.

He was arraigned by Judge Dechon in Town of Wawarsing Court and remanded to the Ulster County Jail without bail. Additional charges are anticipated.


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