Arson death teen might avoid prison

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A teenager who admitted his role in the arson death of a south Auckland woman last year has been jailed for two years, but given leave to apply for home detention.

The teenager, who cannot be named, admitted the manslaughter of Lynette Chapman, 49, who died when her house in Pukekohe was set on fire in January last year.

In the High Court at Auckland today he was jailed for two years and an order suppressing his name was continued.

Another teenager, who was 16 when the woman died, was due to stand trial for the murder of the woman next month.

Both teenagers were initially charged with the arson of Mrs Chapman's house.

Justice Christopher Allan granted the man leave to apply for home detention should a suitable address be found.

- NZPA