CONWAY, S.C. (AP) - The man officials said was responsible for the most destructive wildfire in South Carolina history is facing drug charges.
Authorities say 42-year-old Marc Torchi was arrested last week and faces several counts of possession and manufacturing controlled substances.
Horry County authorities searched Torchi's Conway home and found drugs including marijuana and synthetic drugs known as "bath salts."
Torchi was released after posting $26,650 in bond, and it wasn't known if he had an attorney.
The 2009 wildfire destroyed 76 homes and charring 31 square miles near Myrtle Beach. Several thousand residents were evacuated.
Authorities said Torchi failed to let officials know he was burning debris in his backyard, and let the fire spread. He pleaded guilty to misdemeanors and paid fines in that case.