WIGGINS, MS – Stefan Day, also known as Stefan Pete Day Rowold, is facing a barrage of federal charges after allegedly torching a local house of worship. A federal grand jury in Gulfport, Mississippi, handed down a six-count superseding indictment accusing Day of deliberately setting fire to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on July 5, 2024, and again on July 7, 2024. The motive, authorities say, appears to be rooted in religious bias.
The indictment details two counts of arson, directly linking Day to the fires that ravaged the church. Beyond that, he’s also been charged with intentionally damaging, defacing, and destroying religious real property specifically *because* of its religious character – a clear indication of a hate-fueled act. Adding to the severity, Day is accused of using fire to commit a federal felony, escalating the potential penalties he faces.
If convicted on all counts, Day could spend a significant portion of his life behind bars. The arson charges carry a minimum sentence of five years and a maximum of 20 years *per count*. The civil rights violations also carry a maximum penalty of 20 years each. And for utilizing fire in the commission of a federal felony, he’s looking at a minimum of ten years, and potentially much more.
The investigation was a multi-agency effort, spearheaded by the FBI’s Jackson Field Office. Crucial support came from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, the Mississippi State Fire Marshal, and the local Wiggins Police Department. This wasn’t a quick case; it required a coordinated response to gather evidence and build a solid case against Day.
Deputy Assistant Attorney General Mac Warner of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Patrick Lemon for the Southern District of Mississippi, and Special Agent in Charge Robert A. Eikhoff of the FBI Jackson Field Office jointly announced the indictment. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Buckner and Trial Attorney Chloe Neely will be prosecuting the case, aiming to secure a conviction and deliver justice for the damaged church and the community it served.
It’s crucial to remember that this indictment is merely an accusation. Stefan Day is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. However, the evidence presented thus far paints a disturbing picture of deliberate destruction motivated by religious hatred. Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it unfolds and provide updates on the proceedings.
Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free
Browse More
