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Morgantown Woman Gets 5 Years for Arson
In a shocking turn of events, 33-year-old Sarah Beth Meckley of Morgantown, West Virginia, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for arson, announced United States Attorney William J. Ihlenfeld, II.
On May 20, 2014, Meckley maliciously damaged and destroyed by means of fire and explosive materials the Chateau Royale Apartment Complex in Morgantown. The devastating fire led to significant property damage and financial losses for the complex’s owners.
As a result of her actions, Meckley was charged with one count of “Arson of a Building Used in Interstate Commerce.” In June 2015, she pled guilty to the charges and accepted responsibility for her crimes.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Cogar prosecuted the case on behalf of the government, working closely with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the West Virginia State Fire Marshal to build a strong case against Meckley.
U.S. District Judge Irene M. Keeley presided over the sentencing hearing, which included an order for Meckley to pay restitution in the amount of $1,246,124.36. The massive restitution order reflects the significant financial losses suffered by the apartment complex’s owners as a result of Meckley’s actions.
As Meckley begins her 60-month sentence, the community can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that justice has been served. The sentence sends a strong message that arson will not be tolerated in our community and that those who engage in such destructive behavior will face severe consequences.
The case serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of arson on our community and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. We hope that this sentence will bring closure to those affected by the fire and serve as a deterrent to others who may consider similar actions.
Key Facts
- State: West Virginia
- Category: Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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