Accused Arsonist Who Reportedly Set Detective's Home On Fire Appears In Court
By Walt Hunter
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – Alleged arsonist Donna Marie Krupp showed no reaction as she came face to face with the Limerick Township police officer, his wife and the family whose home she's accused of burning down during an hour-long preliminary hearing.
Fifty-two-year-old Krupp, a neighbor of Detective Ernie Morris, is accused of setting his Lower Pottsgrove home ablaze early on the morning of December 4th as the family vacationed in Disney World.
Three additional charges against Krupp were added today, including animal cruelty, since the family cat, which perished in the fire.
A state trooper testified that Krupp was the suspect seen on surveillance video igniting a Christmas tree on the family's front porch. Court documents claim Krupp was acting out of revenge following the recent arrest of her son.
Krupp's attorney told CBS 3's Walt Hunter the charges were "unsupported, she has no criminal record." The attorney, John Fioravanti, Jr., entered a not guilty plea, but the District Justice ordered Krupp help for trial on 13 of 14 charges. He also denied a request to lower Krupp's million dollar bail, so following the hearing, she was returned to Montgomery County Prison to await trial.
Lt. Brian Skelton says Officer Morris was "floored" by the incredible generosity of friends, neighbors, fellow officers and total strangers who have donated to a fund to help his family.
The Lieutenant says you can donate to the Morris Family Fire Fund or inquire at any Citizens Bank Branch.
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