WASHINGTON (AP) — An American University department head has been arrested and charged with breaking into a building near campus and setting a fire.
An incident report from D.C. police obtained by WTTG-TV (http://bit.ly/1Cxtzfv ) says Professor David Pitts was arrested early Thursday at the Foxhall Square Shopping Mall. Pitts is chairman of AU’s Department of Public Administration and Policy.
According to the incident report, Pitts is accused of breaking into the building and setting a fire in the parking garage. It says Pitts was found with matches, lighters, gloves, a newspaper and black liquid substance. There was evidence of a small fire still visible Thursday.
The university says Pitts is on leave until more is known about the matter, and the school is cooperating with the police investigation. Pitts’ responsibilities have been reassigned.