Macon County Man Charged with Arson, Trespassing

ATLANTA – Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John F. King announced today that Michael Mitchell, 28, of Ideal, has been charged with arson and trespassing.

At approximately 7:45 a.m. on September 20th, a firefighter from the Ideal Volunteer Fire Department was driving on Hoke Smith Avenue when he spotted a house on fire.

“When firefighters arrived on scene, they found Mr. Mitchell watching the fire from a short distance away,” said Commissioner King. “Upon interview, investigators learned the suspect had been residing in the vacant structure for approximately one month. Mr. Mitchell admitted to using pans with paper and cooking grease as a light source, which ultimately caused the fire.”

Warrants were issued against Mr. Mitchell on September 20th in Macon County. Our office worked with the Macon County Sheriff’s Office and the Ideal Volunteer Fire Department on this case.

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The mission of the Office Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire is to protect Georgia families by providing access to vital insurance products and safe buildings through fair regulation that creates economic opportunities for all Georgians.