(Nov. 11, 2008) – Deputy State Fire Marshals have charged a St. Mary’s County man with intentionally setting fire to his 1990 Chevrolet Van. Investigators determined that Joseph Balsbaugh intentionally set fire to the van in an attempt to collect the insurance money.
The fire occurred on Steine Store Road, Charlotte Hall, Charles County, Wednesday, September 03, 2008. Balsbaugh was homeless at the time of the fire and was living in his van.
Deputy State Fire Marshals served the arrest warrant to Balsbaugh this afternoon at the Charles County Courthouse when he turned himself in. Balsbaugh is charged with 2nd degree arson, and insurance fraud. If convicted of these charges Balsbaugh could face penalties not to exceed over 20 years imprisonment and/ or $30,000.00 in fines.
Balsbaugh is being held at the Charles County Detention Center.
Source: Maryland State Fire Marshal