Michigan Woman Faces Charges for Utility Pole Arsons

A 38-year-old suspect is accused of using gasoline to ignite utility poles across several Michigan counties.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Sex Crimes

Bold flat-color editorial illustration of a solitary utility pole against a muted background, evoking the gravity of infrastructure-related crime. — A 38-year-old Belleville woman is facing multiple arson charges for allegedly igniting utility poles across several southeast Michigan counties last fall. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Dundee police identified a suspect in a string of utility pole arson attacks that occurred across southeast Michigan in late September and early October. The 38-year-old woman from Belleville was arraigned on multiple charges after allegedly using gasoline to target utility infrastructure.

Why it matters

The investigation highlights a multi-county pattern of arson that disrupted utility services and endangered public safety. The suspect is currently facing charges for incidents that spanned several jurisdictions, including Ypsilanti Township and Auburn Hills.

The suspect received a $150,000 bond following her Oct. 5 arraignment on third-degree arson and assault charges. She faces further prosecution for fourth-degree arson from the Oakland County Prosecutor's Office.

The players

Dundee Police Department

This local law enforcement agency led the identification of the vehicle used in the arson investigation.

Oakland County Prosecutor's Office

This legal entity is responsible for filing criminal charges against individuals within its jurisdiction.

Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office

This department handles law enforcement and public safety operations across Washtenaw County.

DTE

This energy company provides utility services and reported the damage to its infrastructure.

The details

Authorities report that the suspect used gasoline to ignite utility poles, with one instance involving her allegedly fleeing a scene and nearly striking a firefighter with her vehicle. Investigators linked the suspect to damage in multiple counties, including fires in Ypsilanti Township, Sterling Heights, and Auburn Hills.

Sept. 29-Oct. 1: Five utility pole fires occurred in Ypsilanti Township.
Sept. 30: A utility pole fire was reported near Pherdun Road and Ann Arbor Road in Dundee.
Oct. 1: The suspect fled a utility pole fire in Sterling Heights.
Oct. 5: The suspect was arraigned on third-degree arson and assault charges.
Oct. 6: The Oakland County Prosecutor's Office charged the suspect with fourth-degree arson.

Legal Context

This case follows the standard prosecution patterns established by the Michigan Penal Code arson sentencing guidelines. Authorities are coordinating across multiple jurisdictions to ensure consistent enforcement of state law regarding the destruction of critical infrastructure.

The localized utility fires caused service disruptions and emergency response hazards for residents in the affected areas. Local law enforcement maintains heightened awareness following these incidents to ensure the security of public infrastructure.

The takeaway

The investigation serves as a reminder of the significant legal and public safety consequences associated with the destruction of utility infrastructure. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity near power poles to local authorities immediately.