CPS: Smith had 'no regard for the consequences'

Melanie Smith has today been sentenced for starting a devastating fire that had an immensely distressing outcome.

She did so knowing that a family with children lived in the flat upstairs and with no regard for the consequences.

At no stage has she has chosen to take any responsibility for the five lives tragically lost as a result of her actions.

Today’s sentencing has at least ensured that she has had to face up to that responsibility in a criminal court.

Melanie Smith’s conviction and sentence is a direct result of swift and decisive investigative work from North Wales Police and specialist fire investigators and I would like to thank them for their professionalism.

I would also like to thank the very many people who have supported the prosecution of this case, either through providing statements or information to the police, or by giving evidence directly in court.