Jason Dawson, Arson, Illinois 2025
Arson Charge Filed Against Edwardsville Man
EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – Jason Dawson, 38, of Edwardsville, is facing a federal arson charge for allegedly setting fire to an insurance office building in Alton.
According to charging documents, Dawson is accused of setting fire to an insurance office building on East Delmar Avenue in Alton on November 22, 2025. The complaint alleges Dawson was upset about the amount for a life insurance policy cashout after a meeting with employees on November 21 and returned to the office the following day to set the building on fire.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office of Southern District of Illinois, the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal, and the ATF are collaborating on the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Hudson is prosecuting the case.
Arson convictions are punishable by up to 20 years’ imprisonment and fines up to $250,000.
“The ATF has a responsibility to protect our communities. We also have a responsibility to hold those accountable who endanger lives and property through acts of arson. Our partnership with the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of Southern District of Illinois did just that. This indictment is a result of diligent investigative work and close collaborations among the ATF, the Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal and the U.S. Attorney’s Office; and we will continue to work together to pursue justice for other cases like this,” said ATF Chicago Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Amon.
An indictment is merely an allegation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Dawson is charged with one count of arson. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment and fines up to $250,000.
Key Facts
- State: Illinois
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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