PITTSFIELD - A Vermont judge is delaying action on extradition proceedings to return accused arsonist Phillip J. Jordan to Massachusetts for trial until the court examines Jordan's mental competency, according to the Berkshire District Attorney's Office.
Jordan, 58, is accused of setting multiple houses on fire - including his own - on Pittsfield Saturday night. Before he could be apprehended, he fled town, leading authorities to issue a regional alert.
He was apprehended Sunday in Highgate Springs, Vermont, by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol as he tried to enter Canada. He is being held as a fugitive from justice in Vermont.
At his arraignment Monday in a Vermont court, Jordan denied the charges and bail was set at $25,000. The court ordered a hearing to determine his competency before any proceedings begin about returning him to Massachusetts.
Jordan is facing three counts of burning a dwelling as a result of fires at homes on Appleton Avenue, Ridge Avenue and Fort Hill Avenue. An investigation by the Pittsfield police and fire departments, and the state Fire Marshall is continuing and additional charges are possible.