MONTICELLO – Mohammed Islam, 33, was convicted and sentenced to 15 years in prison for first degree manslaughter with five years post release supervision, and was additionally convicted of fourth-degree arson and third-degree burglary. 

The sentencing was overseen by Sullivan County Court Justice Jim Farrell on December 19.

Forestburgh Assistant Fire Chief William “Billy” Steinberg, 37, suffered a fatal heart attack while administering mutual aid on the scene of a structure fire at 65 Rock Ridge Dr. in the Town of Thompson on January 15. This deadly fire was started by Islam.

According to Islam’s Defense Attorney and Director of Sullivan County Legal Aid Panel, Tim Havas, Islam’s actions were not out of malicious intent or for profitable means, but because of a necessity to be warm and for protection from the cold January weather.

Billy Steinberg’s father, James Steinberg Sr., spoke before the courtroom alongside members of his family.

“Mohammed, you have no idea how many lives you put in jeopardy, with setting those fires, and the last, took our son’s Billy’s life. You have devastated our family and brother firefighters,” Steinberg said.

“Mohammed, you look at me,” Steinberg continued. “Every time you strike a match or flick a lighter, think about what you did by taking our son, brother, uncle, and stepdad from us.”

When asked by Judge Farrell, Islam waived his opportunity to speak personally. However, Havas did mention in his prepared statement on his client’s behalf that Islam did feel sorrowful and remorseful for the consequences of his actions.

Judge Farrell recalled January 15 as a “sad and impactful day,” exclaiming his empathy for volunteer firefighters, especially Billy Steinberg, who dedicate their time and energy oftentimes without recognition and always without financial compensation.

After extending his sympathies to the Steinberg family, Judge Farrell spoke on the harm of NYS bail reform’s current status. Judge Farrell also reported that the owner of the building that was set on fire expressed disgust on Islam’s initial release after setting two fires prior.

Immediately following the sentencing, the crowd of volunteer firefighters, local leaders in the community, and members of the Steinberg family gathered at the Sullivan County District Attorney’s Office for remarks about the sentencing and what was to come with the pending legislation known as ‘Billy’s Law.’ 

‘Billy’s Law’

Following the loss of Forestburgh Assistant Fire Chief Billy Steinberg, legislation was drafted by New York State Senator Mike Martucci and Assemblywoman Aileen Gunther, who co-wrote and proposed the bipartisan bill titled ‘Billy’s Law’ which is intended to protect volunteer firefighters from repeat arsonists by closing the bail loophole for third and fourth degree felony arson.

Billy’s Law stems from the fact that Islam had been previously connected with two prior instances of arson on January 10 and 13. However, due to the recent New York State bail reform that was put into effect on January 1, 2020, Islam was unable to be detained.

Joining Sullivan County District Attorney Meagan Galligan at the podium was Chief Assistant District Attorney Brian Conaty, Sullivan County Sheriff Mike Schiff, Senator Martucci, representative for Assemblywoman Gunther, Matt McPhillps, and Sullivan County Fire Coordinator John Hauschild.

Those who spoke highlighted ‘Billy’s Law’ and its pertinence in being passed.

“This is a message to the New York State Legislators that voted for this bail reform. You have blood on your hands. It is time to get your head out of the sand, so this doesn’t happen to another family member of firefighters, EMS, and law enforcement, or the residents of the State of New York,” Jim Steinberg Sr. said in his statement before the courtroom on December 19.

‘Billy’s Law’ will continue to be reviewed by New York State legislators after session resumes in January.

The community remembers Billy Steinberg

A shared sentiment from the many speakers was that of Billy Steinberg’s dedication to his family, friends, and community as a volunteer firefighter, an Eagle Scout and Assistant Scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 101 of Rock Hill, and his countless other responsibilities he undertook, which included the maintenance and upkeep of the Veteran Square in Forestburgh.

Following family tradition, Billy Steinberg was only 16 years old when he started his career and life as a volunteer firefighter for the town of Forestburgh. Billy’s father, grandfather, and great-grandfather also dedicated their time and energy to the fire service.

Immediately following his passing, Steinberg’s funeral in January called for the shutting down of Broadway in Monticello. The community gathered to mourn and remember the man who gave everything for the safety of his community.

A memorial outside of the Forestburgh Fire Hall was unveiled and dedicated in remembrance of Steinberg in August earlier this year. On that day, members of the Forestburgh and volunteer firefighter communities spoke with loving remembrance of the legacy of Forestburgh Fire Company’s Assistant Fire Chief, William “Billy” Steinberg.