SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB) — The retired Springfield Police officer that allegedly set his Ludlow home on fire, leading to a hours long standoff, has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

71-year-old George Stuart was arraigned Friday in Hampden County Superior Court on a charge of burning a dwelling.

He was indicted on the charge back August. Stuart had been recovering from a self-inflicted gunshot wound which occurred during the standoff.

On July 18, Stuart allegedly set fire to his home, then hid in the woods behind it. He refused to come out, which led to a seven hour long standoff with police.

Stuart pleaded not guilty Friday. His bail was set at $250,000 and if he posts bail, he will be required to wear a GPS monitoring bracelet.

A pre-trial hearing is set for January 31.