LAS VEGAS, Nev. – Andrew Joseph Sanders, 28, of Las Vegas, is trading the desert heat for a federal prison cell after receiving a five-year sentence for deliberately torching The Drew Las Vegas, a resort and casino still under construction. Chief U.S. District Judge Miranda Du handed down the sentence Friday, August 28, following a dogged investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Clark County Fire Department.
The fires, set on March 1, 2018, weren’t a cry for help, or a tragic accident. Court documents reveal Sanders simply trespassed onto the property and, with chilling nonchalance, began filming himself as he ignited two separate blazes roughly 200 yards apart. The evidence, captured on his own cell phone, didn’t mince words. Sanders reportedly narrated his actions, at one point stating, “and I lit a fire to this [expletive]. I’m just bored, you know?” That’s right – boredom fueled millions in damage.
But the damage wasn’t the only consequence of Sanders’ reckless act. As firefighters from the Clark County Fire Department responded to the scene, Sanders didn’t just attempt to flee; he actively confronted them. According to court records, he “squared off” in a fighting stance, forcing the first responders to subdue him before they could focus on containing the growing inferno. This needless struggle delayed critical water supply to crews battling the flames inside the building, exacerbating the destruction.
Sanders eventually pleaded guilty to one count of arson in October 2019, attempting to mitigate the consequences of his actions. But Judge Du wasn’t buying it. The five-year prison term, coupled with three years of supervised release, sends a clear message: wanton destruction and assaulting first responders won’t be tolerated. The court will determine the full extent of restitution owed for the millions of dollars in damages at a later date.
U.S. Attorney Nicholas A. Trutanich of the District of Nevada and ATF Special Agent in Charge Patrick Gorman announced the sentencing, highlighting the collaborative effort that brought Sanders to justice. “This case demonstrates the commitment of federal and local law enforcement to protect our communities from violent acts and hold offenders accountable,” stated a press release from the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
If you have information about arson or other federal crimes, don’t stay silent. Anonymous tips can be submitted to ATF through the ReportIt mobile app or by calling the ATF Tip Line at 1-888-ATF-TIPS. The Drew Las Vegas, now open, is a testament to resilience, but the scars of Sanders’ actions remain a stark reminder of the potential for senseless violence.
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Key Facts
- State: Nevada
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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