Probation extended in fire-setting case

Probation was extended four years for a Gardnerville man who failed to join the military or make regular restitution to a 24-year-old man whose leg he set on fire as a prank.

Trent Clanton told District Judge Michael Gibbons on Monday that he was unemployed and unable to find work to keep up with $250 a month toward $40,673 restitution.

Clanton said he made his last payment in December.

He pleaded guilty to felony mayhem for the incident that occurred in April 2007.

Clanton and the victim were at a party in the Pine Nut Mountains.

He admitted pouring gasoline from a beer can onto the shoe of the victim and then lighting it on fire at a party. The victim suffered severe burns and nerve damage.

Clanton said Monday he completed 200 hours of community service that Gibbons ordered as part of his sentencing a year ago. The judge agreed to one year probation so Clanton could enlist in the Marines.

Lawyer Tod Young said his client had been unable to find work and moved back in with his mother.

"He's applied at every retail outlet in the area. Last week he went to Winnemucca to see about a job in the mines. He completed the parole and probation job program. He's just broke," Young said.

He said Clanton borrowed the money to pay the restitution and for car insurance.

Young said Clanton's admission to the Marine Corps is delayed while he is on probation.

Gibbons dismissed violation charges against Clanton but extended his probation four more years.

"If you're not going into the military, there's no point in one year of probation," Gibbons said. "You've got to make every effort to get employed. If I were you, I would pursue the military."

He told Clanton he would reconsider the length of probation if he can prove he is being accepted by the military.