Evansville man suspected of numerous arsons arrested during police surveillance operation

At approximately 12:20 Thursday morning, Evansville Police officers assigned to the Intelligence Led Policing unit arrested 37 year old JAMES SHARP on several charges, including Arson. Officers had developed SHARP as a suspect in numerous arsons in the area of 1st Ave and Columbia.
During a surveillance operation last night, Officer saw SHARP approach 923 W Oregon. That address was the scene of previous fires on August 22, 2015 and November 22, 2016.
There was a section of rolled up carpet outside the home that was between a chain link fence and the house. Officers saw SHARP light the carpet on fire. When officers approached, SHARP began walking away.
When officers attempted to arrest SHARP, he refused to follow commands and tried to conceal the lighter police believed he used to ignite the carpet.
The Evansville Fire Department was called to the scene. The area where he attempted to ignite the carpet had melted, but did not spread to the home.
No injuries were reported during the incident. The investigation into other arsons in the area continues. Anyone with information on any of the previous cases is asked to call EPD at 1-812-436-7979.
SHARP was arrested for:
ARSON
Criminal Recklessness
Resisting Law Enforcement