ATLANTA – A former convict from Kennesaw has been hit with federal charges for a shocking act of arson against the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) building in downtown Atlanta. Ronald Watson, also known as Sarah Watson, Miranda Kyle, and Emily Smith, is accused of setting fire to government property during protests in 2020.
“The right to peacefully protest never excuses acts of violence,” declared U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “Anyone who perpetrates or threatens violence against federal officers or property must be identified, found, and held accountable.”
FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown echoed the sentiment: “The First Amendment does not allow individuals to commit arson or destroy property. The FBI will continue to work with law enforcement partners to ensure community safety while respecting constitutional rights.”
Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Georgia and Alabama, emphasized the severity of the crime: “Setting fire to a government building is an attack on the rule of law and community safety. HSI will pursue those who endanger lives and destroy public property with relentless determination.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, Watson was identified based on evidence from his January 2023 felony conviction for assaulting a public safety officer in Oregon. He had previously posted anti-ICE messages and claimed involvement in vandalism online.
The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of Watson. To report tips, contact the FBI at tips.fbi.gov or 800-CALL-FBI.
Related Federal Cases
- Convicted Felon Sentenced to 10 Years for Gun Charges · Alabama
- Amgen Pays $71M for Pushing Drugs Off-Label · Washington
- Amgen Inc. $71M Settlement · Washington
- Western Union Scam · Washington
- Oregon Guy’s Threat Against U.S. Senator: Violent Crime Ring Blows Up in Alabama · Alabama
Key Facts
- State: Georgia
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
