MANHATTAN – A Kansas man will serve 24 months probation in connection with an aggravated arson case.

On Monday, Riley County Judge John F. Bosch approved a dispositional departure in the sentencing process and followed a plea agreement by Gene Pixler, 52, of Manhattan, and the Prosecution.

Pixler was arrested at the Riley County Police Department on April 20, after an investigation into a report for aggravated arson and criminal damage to property. The incident occurred in the early morning hours of January 31 at the Manhattan Emergency Shelter.

Only minor damage was reported and no injuries were listed to anyone inside as a result of this incident.

According to the Manhattan Fire Department total damage was estimated at $125 for content and property loss.

Along with his probation, Pixler was ordered to continue with a drug and alcohol treatment program through Pawnee Mental Health and additional treatment he is receiving.

He was also ordered to pay $169 restitution to the Manhattan Emergency Shelter.