A Camden NJ woman faces charges for allegedly starting a fire at an apartment complex in Woodbury, New Jersey.
According to Gloucester County prosecutors, the 42-year-old suspect recently pleaded guilty to charges of criminal mischief in connection with a fire on the third floor of an apartment complex located on South Broad Street in Woodbury, NJ. The suspect appeared in Gloucester County Superior Court and admitted to starting the fire with either a match or a cigarette in September 2014.
The fire resulted in significant damage to the apartment. Authorities estimated the cost of the damage to be in excess of $2,000.
As a result of the guilty plea, Gloucester County prosecutors intend to recommend that the suspect be sentenced to 4 years in New Jersey State Prison. Additionally, the suspect will probably be required to pay restitution for the property damage.
If the case had gone to trial, the suspect might have faced sterner penalties. As set forth by N.J.S.A. 2C:17-1, arson is typically classified as a third degree felony. A conviction on third degree arson charges could potentially result in a maximum sentence of 5 years in New Jersey State Prison.
The suspect will return to Gloucester County Superior Court on July 17 for a sentencing hearing.
While the suspect awaits sentencing, she will remain in custody at the Salem County Jail. She is being held at the correctional facility in lieu of $25,000 bail.
For additional information about this case, check out the NJ.com article entitled “Camden Woman Admits Role in Woodbury Apartment Fire.”
