WICHITA FALLS, Texas — A former Whataburger manager has been sentenced in connection with the burglary and arson of a relative’s dog grooming business in 2020.
Jeffrey Michael Aine, 39, pleaded guilty and received deferred sentences of probation. A judge ordered him to serve 10 years of probation for arson and five years for burglary, to run concurrently.
Aine was also ordered to pay nearly $60,000 in restitution for damages and losses caused by the fire and break-in. When asked in court, he said paying the restitution would not be an issue.
He told the court he may be able to return to a previous job earning $80,000 annually after completing a dependency rehabilitation program. If not, he said he has other business contacts that could help him find employment.
The fire occurred on March 20, 2020, at Margot’s All-Breed Grooming on Old Jacksboro Highway. Emergency crews responded early that morning after the blaze was reported.
Investigators later found that the back door had been forced open and a bolted safe containing $400 had been stolen. Authorities also discovered burn damage in the area where the safe had been located, with thousands of dollars in damage to the building and equipment.
Police said a CrimeStoppers tip and video evidence showing Aine with the safe helped lead to his arrest.
A cat inside the business died as a result of the fire.
