A Maryland woman has been arrested after allegedly setting fire to a man’s home over a $7 debt. The incident occurred in Salisbury, where Janice Oney, 51, faces multiple charges, including arson, malicious burning, and theft after the fire was intentionally set outside a man’s residence.
The Argument That Led to Arson
The event unfolded on July 3, when Oney, who had known the man for several years, visited his home. According to the man, Oney became upset after demanding $7 that she claimed he owed her. The two reportedly argued before Oney left the house, only to return minutes later with a bottle of gasoline.
Witnesses say she set fire to the front door of the home before fleeing the scene on a bicycle. Fortunately, the fire was contained and did not spread far, as the man managed to extinguish it before fire officials arrived.
Investigation and Arrest
Despite the fire being quickly put out, authorities were determined to investigate the incident. The State Fire Marshal’s Office, along with the Salisbury Fire Department, began looking into the case.
The victim’s account, combined with surveillance footage from local businesses, helped investigators link Oney to the crime. It was determined that she had intentionally started the fire.
Oney was arrested on August 1 and charged with several crimes, including first and second-degree arson, malicious destruction of property, reckless endangerment, and theft of less than $100. She was granted a $25,000 unsecured bond, which she posted.
Next Steps and Court Hearing
Oney’s preliminary court hearing is scheduled for August 28. In the meantime, she remains in the Wicomico County Detention Center. The case has sparked concern over the extreme response to a minor debt, and many are left questioning the severity of the actions taken over such a small amount of money.
A Bizarre Incident in Salisbury
This unusual and alarming incident has drawn attention in Salisbury, a city located about 30 miles west of Ocean City, Maryland. The fact that the dispute led to such dangerous consequences over a $7 debt is both shocking and concerning for the local community.
