GEORGE COUNTY, Miss. (WHLT) – George County deputies announced an Alabama woman was arrested for damaging property and setting fire to items, as well as animal cruelty.
On August 14, 2026, deputies responded to the Basin community after receiving a call about the damaged property. The suspect was identified as Maria Lewis, 55, of Mobile.
Man accused of urinating at Jones County payment kiosk
Investigators determined that Lewis had been staying at the Mississippi residence and was in the process of being evicted by the homeowner. During the incident, deputies said Lewis damaged several thousand dollars’ worth of property and set fire to other items belonging to the homeowner.
During the investigation, authorities said it was alleged that Lewis placed her small dog inside a carrier and left the animal in nearby woods without food or water. The dog was discovered by a neighbor the following day.
Lewis was arrested and initially charged with felony malicious mischief and felony arson, third-degree. She was then charged with simple cruelty to animals (misdemeanor)…