PUNTA GORDA, Fla. ( WWSB ) - A man arrested last week in connection with a fire at the Chabad of Charlotte County synagogue is now facing a federal charge.

U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announced that Blake Richard Hoover, 31, of Punta Gorda, has been charged in federal court with arson. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 20 years in prison.

The fire broke out around 10:48 p.m. on Sept. 19 at the synagogue on West Henry Street. Flames were seen at the back of the building. Firefighters quickly put out the blaze. No one was inside at the time, and no injuries were reported.

Investigators said a screen had been cut and an accelerant was used to ignite a fire in the children’s classroom. Several spray-painted “J” markings were also discovered on walls and

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