Volunteer interpreter used after 2 ALS no-shows
A woman has pleaded guilty to starting a fire in Crofton Way, Enfield which swept through a Turkish man's flat and led to an explosion that blew out windows in the building.
Sevcan Davaz, 28, pleaded guilty on a charge of arson reckless as to whether life was endangered during a hearing at Wood Green Crown Court on Wednesday. On another charge, of arson with intent to endanger the life of another, she entered a not guilty plea.
The fire began late at night on the evening of 3 December 2011 and spread rapidly around the property, damaging neighbouring flats in the block as well as the surrounding gas piping.
She spoke through a volunteer interpreter brought by her defence counsel after the registered interpreter from Applied Language Solutions failed to make an appearance. An ALS interpreter similarly failed to appear at Ms Davaz's first hearing two weeks ago.
Ms Davaz was seen to be tearful as arrangements were made to schedule her trial for Thursday 8 May. She was remanded in custody until that date.
