GRAND RAPIDS (WZZM) -- A judge will let an accused arsonist's in-court apology -- and other statements made to detectives -- be submitted as evidence in his trial.

On Thursday, Circuit Court Judge Donald Johnston ruled against a suppression motion made by the lawyer for Joseph McIntyre, the 24-year-old man charged with setting fires in homes mainly in southeast Grand Rapids and Kentwood from July to October of last year.

McIntyre's attorney was seeking to have any incriminating statements his client made to police excluded from the arson trial, which is scheduled to begin on June 27.

One statement McIntyre made was during his initial court appearance after his arrest on October 17.  During the October 18 arraignment, McIntyre said, "I apologize and I'm sorry."

Prosecutors believe McIntyre set at least nine house fires in the area around Woodland Mall.  He was the subject of an investigation that involved Grand Rapids and Kentwood police, sta

One of the garages burned by an arsonist last fall is nearly rebuilt. This garage, in the 3000 block on Mulford Dr in Kentwood, was boarded up for repairs until just days ago. Jospeh MacInteyre is the alleged perpetrator.

KENTWOOD, Mich.   The Kentwood Police Department is looking for residents to participate in the 24th session of its Citizens Police Academy starting next month.

Kentwood Police Chief Richard Mattice says the informational program, which the department holds once or twice a year, is a great "opportunity for residents to view the inner workings of the Kentwood Police Department and observe the department's various functions."

Mattice says they have found that lack of familiarity of law enforcement causes people to be afraid or unwilling to call police even when it is in their best interest to do so.

The six week academy is open to any resident or business in the city of Kentwood and begins April 14th and runs every Thursday through May 19th.

"Every citizen has a vested interest in knowing what the city offers," said Mattice.