Suspects in Rock Island blaze denied bond

Arson suspects William Kosgard IV and Kadon Svec appeared in court remotely for the second time on Monday. Both suspects appeared before Judge Frank Fuhr, who made the decision to continue their detainment before their next court appearances.

The judge agreed with the state’s argument that both men allegedly put the community and first responders in danger and said that there are no conditions that would protect the community if they were to be released.

While the prosecutor read the charges, she said that the fire caused well over $100,000 worth of damage. The blaze also led to a cow being burned alive at the Rock Island Livestock Auction Barn, according to the court.

The prosecution said that both men, along with co-defendant Matthew Wooddell, are also being investigated by the FBI and ATF (Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms) in connection with an East Moline fire that occurred on Feb. 21, burning hundreds of railroad ties.

All three men have been charged with arson, a Class 1 felony; felony criminal damage to property, a Class 2 felony; and animal torture, a Class 3 felony. Kosgard and Wooddell are set to appear in court on March 19 for their preliminary hearing with Svec appearing on March 26 for his preliminary hearing.

All are being held in Rock Island County Jail.