Two Midtown firefighters have been indicted on charges of second-degree arson for allegedly setting the bay door of their firehouse ablaze in October.
The pair, Richard Capece, 31, and Michael Izzo, 30, smirked and smiled yesterday as they pleaded not guilty in Manhattan Supreme Court to the childish but potentially dangerous prank at Engine 34/Ladder 21 on West 38th Street.
Each faces up to 25 years if convicted of the felony. Lawyers for the pair said yesterday they’re hopeful a plea deal can be worked out before their next court date, Jan. 22.
“Everyone is optimistic on both sides that we’re going to reach a disposition,” said Capece’s defense lawyer, Arthur Aidala.
Cops say surveillance video captured the two buying a gallon can of fuel at a nearby gas station – and that records show Capece used his credit card for the purchase.
More video captured the two parking near Engine 34, then leaving the car and walking toward the firehouse, with Izzo carrying the can, cops said.
Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta at the time called the prank an “outrageous, depraved act.”