PITTSFIELD, Mass. — On Monday, April 3, Michael Innis pleaded guilty to Burn Building and Destruction of Place of Worship in Berkshire Superior Court. 

 

Judge Flannery sentenced Innis to 2.5-3.5 years in state prison. The Commonwealth recommended 3 to 4 years in state prison. The defense recommended 2.5 years in the House of Corrections.

 

On August 4, 2021, Michael Innis, who was 53 at the time, and a second defendant were discovered to have set fire to the south facing door of St. Joseph's Church. Damage caused by the fire was estimated to be over $10,000. 

 

The second defendant's case is pending.

 

Pittsfield Police investigated the crime. Assistant District Attorney Joseph Yorlano represented the Commonwealth. Tara Jones-Nutting served as the Victim Witness Advocate.