A 20-year-old woman from Summerside was sentenced on Friday for her involvement in an arson incident. Savannah Callaghan and her father, Terrence Roy Wilson, were found guilty of setting fire to a residence on Belmont Street in Summerside last October. Wilson was previously sentenced to 17 months in a provincial correctional facility for his role in starting the fire.
The agreed statement of facts presented to the provincial court revealed that Callaghan and Wilson set fire to a property on Belmont Street, resulting in the destruction of the home and causing damage to nearby homes and vehicles. Both Callaghan and Wilson pleaded guilty to the arson charges, avoiding a trial.
Callaghan has been handed a 465-day jail sentence for her part in the arson. Both her and her father are obligated to compensate the individuals whose properties and vehicles were damaged in the incident, with each required to pay $1,000. Chief Judge Krista J. MacKay expressed relief that there were no injuries, emphasizing the potential for severe harm or even death.
During her time in custody, Callaghan faced assault charges on two occasions. In April, she assaulted two female corrections officers at the provincial correctional facility, resulting in additional days being added to her sentence. Despite being sentenced to a total of 495 days, she will only serve 14 more days before her release due to time already served.
Upon release, Callaghan will be subjected to three years of probation, DNA submission, a prohibition on owning weapons for a decade, and restrictions from going near Belmont Street or contacting any victims in the case, including her father. MacKay reiterated the gravity of the situation, highlighting the destruction of homes.
Callaghan’s lawyer, Brendan Hubley, highlighted her troubled past, including being separated from her parents at a young age and enduring various forms of abuse. Hubley noted that her relationship with her father has not been positive. Callaghan chose not to comment before her sentencing.
MacKay expressed uncertainty about the trial’s outcome, acknowledging potential issues with the case that may have hindered a conviction. Callaghan will also be required to undergo mental health or addiction treatment as directed by her probation officer.