Kentucky Father Charged with Arson in Fatal Fire Involving Two Sons

Dustin Fields, a Kentucky man, has been charged with first-degree arson after a fire at his Franklin County home killed his two teenage sons and the family dog. Investigators allege Fields knowingly set the fire using accelerants, with a K-9 detecting these substances on his shoes and in the area where the children were found. Fields pleaded not guilty and asked the judge for temporary release to attend his sons' funerals, but his request was denied, and bond was set at $2 million. Authorities noted Fields gave inconsistent statements about the incident, and while he currently faces only an arson charge, additional charges are possible as the investigation continues. Reports indicate Fields' spouse had recently obtained a restraining order due to alleged domestic violence, and concerns about the children's safety had previously been reported to Child Protective Services but were not investigated. The next court hearing is scheduled for May 13, when further legal decisions may be made.