Phoenix, AZ — Federal prosecutors announced that 66-year-old Viorel Pricop has been convicted of multiple arson charges after setting fire to semi-truck trailers belonging to Swift Transportation across several states, including three incidents in Arizona.
The conviction follows an eight-day trial where jurors found Pricop guilty of three counts of arson of a vehicle or property in interstate commerce. He has been in federal custody since October 2022.
A Pattern of Targeted Fires
According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona, Pricop deliberately set fire to three Swift-owned trailers in Arizona—two in Willcox and one in Holbrook.
Investigators determined that in each case, the trailers were parked at or near truck stops, and Pricop ignited fires near the tires.
“Pricop has been in federal custody since October 2022,” federal officials confirmed in a statement.
Evidence further showed the Arizona attacks were part of a larger arson spree spanning multiple states.
Swift Trailers Targeted Nationwide
During the trial, prosecutors presented evidence linking Pricop to at least 16 additional arsons against Swift Transportation between October 2021 and September 2022.
Key details include:
- Fires set along Interstate 10 and Interstate 40, stretching from Barstow, California, to McCalla, Alabama.
- A 2024 trial in California where Pricop was found guilty of six arsons tied to Swift trailers.
- Investigators found a gash torch, lighters, and fuel-soaked rags in Pricop’s vehicle, reinforcing suspicions of intentional arson.
The full announcement was released in a statement by the Department of Justice, as reported here.
Criminal History and Backstory
This was not Pricop’s first conviction. According to an Associated Press report in 2022, he had previously been convicted in Michigan for transporting stolen goods and sentenced to two years in prison.
Prosecutors said that Swift Transportation had cooperated closely with federal investigators during both cases, providing key evidence that tied Pricop to the string of arsons.
Sentencing Ahead
With his latest conviction, Pricop now faces serious federal penalties. His sentencing is scheduled for November 13.
- Minimum penalty: 5 years in prison
- Maximum penalty: 20 years in prison for each count
Federal prosecutors said the case demonstrates their commitment to protecting interstate commerce and holding offenders accountable for targeting transportation companies.
Broader Implications
Swift Transportation is one of the largest trucking carriers in the United States, and the case highlights how coordinated attacks on its fleet posed risks not only to property but also to truck drivers and nearby communities.
Officials emphasized that the string of arsons could have caused even greater damage had they not been investigated and prosecuted across multiple jurisdictions.
What are your thoughts on this case of serial arson targeting trucking companies? Share your views in the comments below.
