LAS CRUCES – New Mexico State University Police have arrested a 58-year-old woman accused in a series of arson incidents reported on the NMSU campus during the early morning hours of May 3 and May 4.
Robin Appleton is charged with three counts of arson over $500 and one count of larceny. NMSU said all four charges are fourth-degree felonies.
According to NMSU Police, palm trees were set on fire at three campus locations: near the Delta Zeta sorority residence, between Hardman and Jacobs Undergraduate Learning Center and Domenici Hall, and between Branson Library and Foster Hall.
KFOX14/CBS4 in El Paso, citing court documents, reported the investigation also involved a bush fire at Lot 19 and an electric scooter that had been reported stolen.
Police were called to the first reported fire at about 5:55 a.m. Sunday. A second incident was reported early Monday morning, when authorities found the stolen electric scooter and another palm tree fire in the area between Hardman Jacobs Undergraduate Learning Center and Pete Domenici Hall.
Investigators reviewed campus surveillance video and received witness information that helped identify Appleton as a suspect. Police also received multiple tips after asking the campus community and the public for assistance.
Appleton was arrested Wednesday by NMSU Police. Court documents reportedly state that Appleton admitted during an interview to starting one of the fires and stealing the scooter.
NMSU Police Chief Justin Dunivan thanked the community for helping investigators.
“I appreciate the community’s due diligence,” Dunivan said. “We received numerous tips to help with our investigation, and I’m incredibly grateful for the hard work of everyone involved in solving this case.”
While the investigation was active, NMSU Police increased patrols to help protect the campus community.
NMSU first responders are reminding students, staff and visitors to remain aware of their surroundings, move toward well-lit areas or groups if someone is acting suspiciously, avoid leaving valuables unattended and report possible safety concerns to police.
Emergencies should be reported by calling 911. Non-emergency safety concerns at NMSU may be reported to police at 575-646-3311.
Appleton is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
John Krehbiel – Bravo Mic Communications – john@bravomic.com
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