CLEVELAND — A Parma man is facing federal charges for his alleged role in the infamous Downtown Cleveland riots from more than two years ago.
Seth Calig, 49, is accused of helping a group set fire to a parking booth back on May 30, 2020. Specifically, the Department of Justice alleges Calig used a lighter to ignite a roll of paper towels before placing the flaming object inside the structure on West 3rd Street, while others looked on.
What began as a peaceful demonstration that day against the murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer soon unraveled into chaos, with some protesters resorting to destruction and looting of buildings, businesses, and vehicles in Cleveland. In the years since, authorities have made multiple arrests, while most of the businesses in the area are back up and running.
One of Calig's alleged co-conspirators, Maple Heights resident Timothy Goodner, pleaded guilty in his own federal case last November. Like Goodner, Calig faces one count of conspiracy to commit arson, and he will be prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly L. Galvin from the Northern District of Ohio.
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- City of Cleveland leaders say 'mistakes were made' during May 30 civil unrest
- Downtown Cleveland businesses lost estimated $6.3 million from May 30 riots
- Tandre Buchanan found guilty of robbery, evidence tampering at Colossal Cupcakes during George Floyd demonstration