MECHANICSVILLE, Md. (April 29, 2010) – The Office of the State Fire Marshal has charged a Mechanicsville man with arson to a vehicle. Paul Jessie Williams (50) was served with a criminal summons at his residence today without incident. The charges stem from a vehicle fire on June 22, 2009 at 38308 Golden Beach Road in Mechanicsville, St. Mary’s County. The vehicle, a 1977 Cadillac Sedan Deville owned by Robert Stasch, received approximately $5,000 damage.
After an extensive investigation, investigators learned of an argument between the two individuals on the night preceding the fire and developed sufficient evidence to charge Williams with: Arson 2nd Degree, Malicious Burning 1st Degree and Malicious Destruction of Property valued over $500. If found guilty of the charges Williams could be imprisoned for up to 28 years, fines up to $37,500 or both.
Source: Office of Maryland State Fire Marshal