The Marshall man accused of starting a fire at the Saline County Jail two years ago has had his case transferred to Lafayette County.

The request of 41-year-old Jonnie Jaye Grimes to have his case moved was granted last month by Circuit Judge Josh Taylor. Grimes is accused of starting a fire at the Saline County Jail the morning of Jan. 2, 2024. Sheriff’s deputies say video footage from the jail showed Grimes in the corner of the work release pod with a bucket, then flames emerging from that corner 30 minutes later, followed by thick smoke. Deputies say of the 54 inmates who were transferred to a neighboring county’s jail after the fire, Grimes was the only one carrying belongings. A search of Grimes upon his arrival at the facility allegedly turned up a lighter.

A plea setting for Grimes on charges of first-degree arson, first-degree property damage, and possession of a weapon at a county jail is scheduled for the afternoon of Jan. 20 at Lafayette Hall in Lexington. Taylor will remain judge, after Grimes withdrew his motion for a change of judge.