12.10.08: Arson
D’Iberville Police Chief Wayne Payne announced the arrest, December 10, 2008 of Michael Bailey, 18 years of age, and Darel Bailus, 18 years of age, both from the D’Iberville community. Chief Payne stated the arrest stemmed from an investigation into two complaints of fires in trash cans. Chief Payne stated both suspects are charged with arson after the D’Iberville Police Department Patrol Division, assisted by the Criminal Investigation’s Division, uncovered information identifying one of the individuals as a person of interest. A subsequent follow-up led to discovery of evidence in the suspect’s vehicle.
During the investigations, Investigators found evidence at the scenes of the crimes that was later connected to the suspects. After hearing facts and circumstances, a Harrison County Justice court Judge issued a warrant for the arrest of both suspects, setting a maximum bond of $20,000.00.
Chief Payne said his department is currently following leads on a third arson that occurred the same night involving a vehicle fire. The vehicle fire was reported after the owner heard “an explosion”, walked out of her residence and found her vehicle engulfed in flames. Evidence at that scene suggests that gasoline was used as an accelerant to start the fire. Chief Payne said after more evidence is obtained, he anticipates arrest(s) in that case also.
The police department seeks the assistance of the community for any information about criminal activity in the D’Iberville community. Please contact the Police Department at 228-396-4252 or Crime Stoppers. Callers can remain anonymous.
