Man arrested in 2015 arson, burglary of Hayden golf business

A North Idaho man is facing charges of arson, burglary and theft in last year’s break-in and fire at a Hayden golf equipment manufacturer.

Derek VanCleave was arrested Aug. 1 by the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office and released on a $10,000 bond.

He is accused of breaking into RHI Golf on June 16, 2015, stealing tools and setting fire to the shop and offices near the Coeur d’Alene Airport. Losses totaled millions of dollars.

Founded by Ferris High School graduate and golf pro Reid Hatley, RHI’s clients have included Pebble Beach, St. Andrews, Merion and the new Tiger Woods-designed Bluejack National near Houston. The company makes custom golf course accessories such as course signs, bag and club stands, benches and trophies.

VanCleave was arrested after his mother contacted police about some apparently stolen tools in her son’s possession, according to court documents. He has not yet entered a plea to the charges.

The U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives assisted in the investigation.