Arson suspect in Thompson Block fire headed to trial
A man accused of setting fire to Ypsilanti’s historic Thompson Block building in September 2009 is heading to trial for arson.
Jacob Popiolek, 21, was ordered to stand trial on a single count of arson of real property following a recent preliminary hearing in district court, records show.
Jacob Popiolek
He pleaded not guilty and remains free on a personal bond pending a pre-trial hearing on Jan. 18.
Authorities said Popiolek and others were trespassing in the building when the early morning blaze started. No one was injured, but the fire gutted the structure, which was vacant and under renovation.
Popiolek remains the only suspect facing charges and could be sentenced to up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
His attorney, Thomas Moors, declined to comment.
Art Aisner is a freelance writer for AnnArbor.com. Reach the news desk at news@annarbor.com or 734-623-2530.
Comments
sailor67
Mon, Dec 20, 2010 : 12:56 p.m.
Peter, I think you misinterpreted my comments and inferred that I have already passed judgement on this guy. I certainly never meant to imply that this guy was not innocent until proven guilty. But that's the joy of inferences... they're private property and yours to enjoy. BTW - I believe that Karma is natures's balance - not it's avenging angel - so please don't overthink that comment either. Lastly, don't worry, I've been involved in countless criminal, civil and forensic investigations and trials... making me (pretty much) immune to jury duty.
evergreen
Sun, Dec 19, 2010 : 7:43 p.m.
Presumed innocent until proven guilty. What happened to the others that were in the building? The reporter doesn't mention. Turned state's evidence probably.
ShadowManager
Sun, Dec 19, 2010 : 6:48 p.m.
I'm looking forward to this trial. That fire always seemed very very suspicious and it might be interesting to hear what this defendant has to say. Alot of drama about that eyesore of a building. I bet Beal wished the kid just pled guilty.
Tom Lienert
Sun, Dec 19, 2010 : 1:54 p.m.
No kidding Peter-the last time I looked, jurors were still expected to weigh the evidence, free of assumptions, in determining guilt or innocence.
Peter
Sun, Dec 19, 2010 : 1:32 p.m.
sailor....You just stated that there may not be enough evidence to say he'll get convicted, yet you are assuming he's guilty. I hope you are never picked for jury duty.
sailor67
Sun, Dec 19, 2010 : 12:22 p.m.
I have absolutely no use for arsonists because they endanger the public and the responders alike, lower property values and create blight. That said, I don't think they're ever gonna' convict this guy because an arson conviction requires proof of intent (a.k.a. motive) and (if this guy was bright enough to keep his mouth shut and there are no credible witnesses) is very difficult to prove. Hopefully Karma will take care of him down the road.