Domestic violence leads to arson arrest
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Stephen Mount
By Christa Jennings
Senior Staff Writer
What initially began as a domestic violence case ultimately led to an arson arrest last Saturday.
According to Sheriff Michael Howell, Deputy Payton was dispatched to County Road 326 in the Kellyton community in reference to a domestic violence case in progress.
It was determined that the suspect and victim had gotten into an altercation at a residence on that road. However, when Payton arrived at the scene, he learned that the suspect and victim had both already left.
He found out where the victim went and proceeded to go find her and talk to her about the altercation. At that time the victim informed him that Stephen Mount, 50 years old of Kellyton, had hit her and shoved her down to the ground then poured gasoline on her and attempted to light her on fire.
While talking to the victim, Payton got a call from dispatch stating that Mount had been reported to be back at the residence on County Road 326 where the altercation took place.
While en route back to the scene, Payton then got another call stating that the residence there was on fire. He rushed to the scene and determined that the house where the domestic altercation occurred was on fire.
Kellyton, Goodwater and Hanover volunteer fire departments were all called and responded to the structure fire.
A witness stated that they saw Mount light the house on fire and then walk away from it. Deputy Middlebrooks responded to the scene trying to locate Mount.
He located Mount walking on the roadway and made contact with him. At that time it was determined that Mount was under the influence of alcohol.
Mount was then arrested last Saturday, June 10, on the charges of public intoxication and second-degree arson.
His bond for the arson charge was set at $30,000, and his bond for the public intoxication charge was set at $500, making his total bond $30,500. As of press time he remained in custody at the Coosa County Jail awaiting trial.
Sheriff Howell said that it is possible some additional charges will come out regarding this case.
Anyone who suspects or observes illegal activity is encouraged to report it to the Sheriff’s Office at 256-377-4922 or online at www.coosacountyso.org. Anonymous tips are also welcome.
