Chattanooga Man Pleads Guilty to Arson of Masonic Center, Faces Up to Five Years in Prison

Chattanooga Man Faces Prison Time for Arson at Masonic Center

In a shocking turn of events in Chattanooga, a 30-year-old man from Catoosa County is facing serious repercussions after pleading guilty to setting fire to the Chattanooga Masonic Center. The fire incident, which happened on September 4, 2023, has left many in the community questioning how someone could take such drastic measures against a place often known for fostering unity and brotherhood.

Facing the Consequences

Kadum Harwood has entered a plea deal which could see him spending up to five years behind bars. The agreed-upon range for Harwood’s sentence is between 40 and 60 months, with the final decision resting in the hands of Judge Charles Atchley. Of course, there’s more to the agreement than just time served; upon release, Harwood will be under three years of supervised release, ensuring that he gradually reintegrates into society after his prison stint.

Sentencing for Harwood is scheduled for March 6 at 10 a.m. During this time, he agreed to several conditions, including that he must stay away from the Chattanooga Masonic Center and refrain from threatening any members of the Masonic community.

A Closer Look at the Crime

The charge against Harwood stems from his plan to damage or destroy the Masonic Center through arson, specifically outlined under the plea of interstate travel with the intent to engage in unlawful activity. On the day of the incident, Harwood drove from his home to the Masonic Center, situated conveniently across from Finley Stadium.

Upon arrival, Harwood implemented a somewhat convoluted plan. He connected a chain from his vehicle to the front doors of the Masonic building, attempting to force them open. This action resulted in the door breaking, allowing him entry. Inside, he used a sledgehammer, an all-too-physical approach, to destroy furniture and items within the center.

Setting the Fire

But Harwood’s actions didn’t stop at mere destruction. He then retrieved firewood from his vehicle, bringing it inside and piling it next to the destroyed items. Not stopping there, he even pulled down curtains to feed his newly created pile. Using an accelerant, Harwood was meticulous in his method. After lighting a piece of paper and dropping it onto the pile, a large fire erupted within the center, a fire that he exacerbated using more curtains.

A Disturbing End

Not content with just the damage inside, Harwood ventured outside, dousing bushes with accelerant that he had previously cut with a chainsaw. According to prosecutors, he then lit this outdoor fire too. Adding to the chaotic scene, Harwood retrieved a .50 caliber Smith & Wesson revolver from his vehicle and fired a shot at the Masonic Center, a final act that underlines the seriousness of his actions.

Community Impact

This incident has certainly sent ripples through the Chattanooga community, raising questions about safety and the motivations behind such destructive behavior. The Masonic Center, a place symbolizing brotherhood, is now associated with a troubling narrative. As the community awaits Harwood’s sentencing, conversations around the importance of social responsibility and support systems continue to flourish.

As the courtroom drama unfolds, it will be worthwhile to reflect on how a single individual’s actions can impact an entire community. Let us hope for a resolution that not only brings justice but also encourages healing and understanding moving forward.