WOMAN FROM ALBUQUERQUE CHARGED WITH SETTING FIRE TO FBI PROPERTY

ALBUQUERQUE –Josephine Gervais, 39, of Albuquerque, N.M., appeared in federal court today on a charge of malicious damage by fire to federal property. 

     According to court documents, Gervais committed the offense on January 31, 2019, by setting fire to a sign and vegetation outside the FBI office in Albuquerque.  Albuquerque Fire and Rescue responded to the scene and put out the fire.  Gervais fled the scene.  Agents arrested her at her home later the same day.

     Gervais faces from 5 to 20 years in prison if convicted.   Allegations in indictments are only accusations. A criminal defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

      The Albuquerque office of the FBI investigated the case with assistance from Albuquerque Fire and Rescue.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Howard R. Thomas is prosecuting the case.