A 20-year-old woman from Summerside has been given a sentence for her involvement in an arson incident. Savannah Callaghan, along with her father Terrence Roy Wilson, set fire to a residence on Belmont Street in Summerside last October. Earlier this year, Wilson received a 17-month sentence for his role in the arson. According to court documents, Callaghan and Wilson ignited a fire that destroyed the home on Belmont Street and caused damage to neighboring properties and vehicles.
Although the case was set for trial, both Callaghan and Wilson pleaded guilty to the arson charges. Callaghan has been sentenced to 465 days in jail for her part in the fire, with both her and her father ordered to pay restitution to the victims of the damage, amounting to $1,000 each. Chief Judge Krista J. MacKay noted the fortunate absence of injuries resulting from the fire, emphasizing the potential for serious harm or even death.
During her time in custody, Callaghan faced assault charges twice. She assaulted two female corrections officers at the provincial correctional facility in separate incidents. The judge added 30 days to Callaghan’s sentence for each assault, bringing her total sentence to 495 days. However, with time served, she will only serve an additional 14 days before being released.
Upon release, Callaghan will be on probation for three years, required to provide her DNA, prohibited from owning weapons for a decade, and restricted from approaching Belmont Street or contacting any victims or her father. Her lawyer highlighted Callaghan’s troubled upbringing and abusive experiences, suggesting her father’s negative influence. Callaghan declined to comment before sentencing. The judge acknowledged potential trial complications and uncertainties regarding a conviction.
Additionally, Callaghan will need to undergo mental health or addiction treatment as directed by her probation officer.