A disturbing domestic violence case in Ohio has led to the arrest of a Florida man accused of intentionally setting fire to his ex-girlfriend’s apartment while speaking with her on a FaceTime call. Authorities say the suspect traveled from Florida to Ohio before carrying out the alleged arson attack.
Florida Man Arrested After Allegedly Setting Ex-Girlfriend’s Apartment on Fire
Jermal Dequan Freeman, 28, is facing multiple criminal charges in Ohio, including aggravated arson, aggravated menacing, and identity theft.
According to the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened on April 10 at an apartment complex located on Belcher Drive in Columbus, Ohio.
Firefighters quickly responded to the scene after receiving reports of a fire inside one of the apartment units.
Victim Was On FaceTime During Alleged Arson
Investigators say the woman who lived in the apartment was not at home when the fire started.
However, according to police, she was on a FaceTime call with Freeman at the time of the incident.
The woman reportedly told investigators that Freeman revealed he was inside her apartment while they were speaking on the call.
Authorities claim Freeman then placed a blanket inside the oven, turned the oven on, and warned the woman that he planned to start a fire.
The shocking accusation became a major piece of evidence in the investigation.
Previous Threats Reportedly Made Before Fire
The victim also informed investigators that she had previously reported Freeman to police for threatening behavior.
According to law enforcement, Freeman allegedly threatened to stab her with a kitchen knife and also made threats against her friends.
Police say he previously told the woman:
“I got your knife. I told you I wasn’t playing with you.”
These earlier incidents reportedly raised concerns about escalating domestic violence before the alleged arson attack took place.
Suspect Allegedly Traveled From Florida
Authorities believe Freeman traveled from Florida City, Florida, to Columbus, Ohio, before allegedly committing the crime.
Police later arrested him on May 15 while he was reportedly trying to arrange a flight back to Florida.
Witnesses reportedly helped investigators identify his location before the arrest was made.
Charges Filed Against The Defendant
Freeman is currently facing several serious criminal charges connected to the case.
| Charge | Details |
|---|---|
| Aggravated arson | Allegedly setting the apartment on fire |
| Aggravated menacing | Related to alleged threats against victim |
| Identity theft | Additional charge filed by investigators |
Court records show he is being held in the Franklin County Jail on a bond exceeding $95,000.
Court Hearings Scheduled
According to court officials, Freeman is expected to appear in court for the arson and identity theft charges on Friday.
A separate court appearance connected to the menacing charge is scheduled for May 28.
He is currently being represented by the Franklin County Public Defender’s Office.
Domestic Violence and Arson Cases Raise Safety Concerns
The case has once again highlighted the dangers linked to domestic violence situations, especially when threats reportedly escalate into violent criminal acts.
Law enforcement agencies continue encouraging victims of domestic abuse or threats to seek help and report concerning behavior before situations become more dangerous.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue reviewing evidence connected to the alleged apartment fire.
