An arson investigation that started in July of 2017 has led to the arrest of a local woman.
Debra L. McFadden of Vevay has been arrested on charges of Arson and Criminal Mischief.
Jeff-Craig Fire & Rescue started responding to multiple dumpster fires in July of last year. After investigating the charred contents it was suspected that the fires were being set intentionally. With the help of the Vevay Police Department, a plan of action was made to find out who was lighting the fires. Within just a few nights of monitoring a local dumpster, Debra McFadden was seen lighting multiple fires.
When confronted about the fires McFadden agreed to seek assistance from community mental health. The fires then started reoccurring in a new location where McFadden had recently moved to in October.
Again early this month the fires started at a third location. “I was contacted by concerned residents that were finding burn patterns in an area close to a local apartment building,” said Fire Chief Chris See. “We again monitored the area and Debra McFadden was seen setting the fires.”
“Our fire department will not tolerate these actions within our jurisdiction. These fires put our community at risk. And the response to and fire operations put our emergency responders at risk,” See continued. “We were responding to set fires several times a week at one point and all the fires were in close proximity of multi-family dwellings.” Chief See had contacted the Indiana State Fire Marshal’s Officer for assistance on how to handle the case. “We have been working closely with State Fire Investigators and they made the arrest today.”
Jeff-Craig Fire would like to thank the Vevay Police Department, Switzerland County Dispatch, and the Indiana Fire Marshal’s Office for all of their assistance in putting a stop to the fires. Debra L. McFadden is innocent until proven guilty.