While a new fire alarm system is being installed in the DeKalb County Courthouse, the case of the man responsible for revealing that the old alarm system was broken in June is still pending in court.

It was learned that the old fire alarm system at the courthouse was inoperable when Gary Wayne Ponder, 52, allegedly set fire to the courthouse on June 14. Ponder was charged with aggravated arson, and is currently on house arrest. His case was recently bound over to the DeKalb County Grand Jury, which will meet again in April.

Ponder was charged after video surveillance reportedly showed him setting a recycling bin ablaze in the first-floor vestibule. Ponder took newspapers from the bin and began lighting them with a cigarette lighter. The fire damaged a wall behind the recycling bin, broke a window near the first floor entrance, and caused smoke damage throughout the courthouse. New ceiling tiles and drywall work were required, and the broken window was replaced. The amount that the county’s insurance provider paid for repairs was reportedly $120,706.52.

The new fire alarm system in the courthouse will meet the latest International Fire Codes, and will cost the county $35,363.81.