Man Arrested In North Branch Vet Clinic Arson
NORTH BRANCH, Minn. (WCCO) – Police said Monday morning an arrest has been made in the arson at a veterinary clinic in North Branch on Nov. 4.
Authorities said they have arrested 21-year-old Ryan Keith Ortlepp of North Branch with the help of tips from the community. Ortlepp was transported to the Chisago County Jail and booked on suspicion of felony second-degree arson.
Five dogs and a cat had to be rescued from the North Branch Veterinary Hospital during the fire, which was reported to authorities at about 3:29 a.m. on Nov. 4.
Although he has not yet been formally charged, Ortlepp faces up to 10 years in prison and a $20,000 fine if convicted. He will remain in jail until his first court appearance.
