Arsonists Allegedly Set Fires for Red Cross Money

DALLAS - Arson investigators say seven people worked together to set at least three fires and then collect disaster relief funds.

The U.S. attorney’s office has charged Marthella Broadus, Lashay Kelly, Kenneth Hunter, Kevin Hunter, Georgialyn Guice, Juanita Broadus and Kenneith Smith with various felonies.

All of their charges are related to fires set between December 2008 and May 2009.

Investigators said in each case the suspects removed household items and valuables from an apartment or rental property and then agreed to set it on fire in order to receive financial assistance from the American Red Cross.

The group caused nearly $1 million in damage, but only made off with less than $6,000.

Regardless, the American Red Cross said that money is something it could have used to help other true victims.

All of the suspects are currently out of jail on bond. They will stand trial in September.