Albany: Police charge woman after she allegedly torched her own bakery for $2.5m insurance claim
West Australian police have charged a woman after she allegedly set fire to her own business in the hope of claiming a multi-million dollar insurance payout.
Officers from Albany detectives have charged a 50-year-old woman as a result of their investigation into a fire at a bakery in Spencer Park (Albany) on Saturday October 12.
About 2.10pm, department of fire and emergency services (DFES) were called to the bakery located on Angove Road where officers extinguished the fire, but there was significant structural and roofing damage to the premises, as well as extensive smoke damage.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.The damage cost was estimated at $955,000.
Detectives will allege the woman deliberately set fire to her premises.
It will be further alleged the woman lodged an insurance claim in relation to the fire a few days later. Her policy stated she was entitled to $500,000 for contents insurance, and a further $2.2 million in business interruption compensation.
The 50-year-old woman from Kalgan has been charged with criminal damage by fire and gain benefit by fraud.
She is due to appear before the Albany Magistrates Court on December 12.
Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or crimestopperswa.com.au.
