ST. MARY’S COUNTY, Md. (September 27, 2012)—Investigators from the State Fire Marshal’s Office served a criminal summons on the owner of the property located at 41990 Domitilla Court in Leonardtown.
The investigation into the 10:39 a.m. dwelling fire on April 6, 2012 revealed that Erica L. Pohnel, age 33, was responsible for intentionally setting a fire in the first floor bedroom that extended into the second floor of the home and caused an estimated $300,000 in damages to the structure and contents. No injuries were reported during the incident.
Pohnel was served a criminal summons at her place of employment today at 1:30 p.m. She was charged with 1st Degree Arson and Burning with Intent to Defraud. If convicted of the charges, Pohnel faces penalties of up to 55 years imprisonment and/or $35,000 in fines. A preliminary court date has been set for November 6, 2012.