A man who started an illegal campfire that got out of control in a public right of way last summer pleaded guilty Monday to a felony fourth-degree arson charge.
Steven Poff, 42, who appeared virtually via cell phone video in a Larimer County courtroom, was sentenced to 18 months of supervised probation and 75 hours of public service. District Court Judge Joseph Findley reserved setting restitution for a later date.
The fire was reported on the evening of July 10, 2025, along the north side of West Elkhorn Avenue near Valley Road in Estes Park.
Firefighters from the Estes Valley Fire Protection District contained the fire to an area approximately 45 by 22 feet, according to previous reporting by the Estes Valley Voice. Several large trees and a fence were damaged, but no injuries or building damage were reported.
Prosecutors said Poff’s mental health, along with being homeless, were mitigating factors and that he started the fire to keep warm.
Poff’s attorney said he had no malicious intent, noting that Poff built the fire in a fire ring and remained on scene actively trying to put the fire out when first responders arrived. Poff is receiving mental health treatment at a sober living facility in Aurora.
“I know I acted very irresponsibly,” Poff told the judge before his sentencing. “I should have paid more attention to that fire. I acted dangerously and recklessly. That will never happen again.“
Associated charges of misdemeanor criminal mischief and possession of drug paraphernalia were dropped as part of the plea agreement.