Woman charged with arson after being rescued

NEWTON FALLS — There’s been a twist in the story of the deputy who saved a couple whose home was on fire on South Canal Street Extension in Newton Township Jan. 16: The wife has been charged with aggravated arson.

Beverly Laney, 68, of Canal Street Extension was arraigned today in Newton Falls Municipal Court on the charge. No plea was required, and her $5,000 bond was continued. She returns to court Feb. 16. If convicted, she could get eight years in prison.

Beverly Laney was booked into the Trumbull County jail on the charge last Thursday and released a couple hours later on bond.

Matt Balut, chief of the county Fire Investigative Unit, which investigated the fire, said he could not discuss the details that led to the charge being filed.

For the complete story, read Tuesday's Vindicator and Vindy.com