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2 students charged in Bursley arsons

Two students were arrested yesterday in connection with a string of fires set in Bursley Hall on March 30.

LSA first-year students John MacDonald and Justin Angelino were arrested and arraigned on four counts of arson -- three against MacDonald and one against Angelino.

Arson of a dwelling house is a felony and punishable by up to 20 years in prison for each count.

In a written statement, Department of Public Safety Capt. James Smiley said an anonymous tip led DPS to the arrests.

"Department of Public Safety officers responded to an anonymous tip and were able to identify the alleged perpetrators of this crime," Smiley said.

The suspects, both Bursley residents, were arraigned before 15th District Court Magistrate James Sexsmith yesterday and released on personal recognizance bonds.

The students are scheduled to appear for preliminary hearings April 24.

Judicial Code Adviser Mary Lou Antieau said arson is generally covered under Section E of the Student Code.

Antieau said "tampering with fire or other safety equipment or setting an unauthorized fire" is punishable under the Code.

While unable to comment on the specific case, Antieau said arson generally leads to the termination of a residence hall lease. She said more severe punishment is also possible.

"If there is evidence of malicious intent, punishment could move towards expulsion," she said.

Antieau said the current case would have to be investigated before a decision could be made.

"Every case has its own set of facts," Antieau added.

DPS reports indicate that the fire caused approximately $3,500 worth of damage to the building, and a housing security officer broke his foot while responding to the fires.

University Fire Marshal Robert Patrick said he is pleased the suspects have been apprehended.

"The University takes arson very seriously because the risk for injury or even death is so high, especially in a residence hall where people sleep," he said.

"We absolutely cannot tolerate this type of behavior on campus," Patrick said.

DPS spokesperson Elizabeth Hall agreed.

"It's really important for people to realize how severe arson can be," she said.

Hall said the investigation is ongoing and that anyone with information about the incident should contact DPS at 763-1131.

Hall said students can call the Confidential Assistance Network -- the University's anonymous tip line -- at (800) 863-1355.

She also said the Michigan Arson Prevention Committee accepts anonymous tips and offers up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of persons suspected of arson. The MAPC tip line may be reached at (800) 44-ARSON.