A woman in Swansea set fire to her flat and then refused to leave the burning property when emergency services arrived, a court revealed. Miakala Edwards had ignited the blaze and had to be removed from the building, where it was later discovered that she had taken amphetamine and claimed to have heard voices in her head before starting the fire. Swansea Crown Court heard that while Edwards initially intended to harm herself rather than others, the reality was that more support and intervention were necessary for her rehabilitation.
On July 1st of this year, police and fire services responded to reports of smoke emanating from a house on Gomer Road in Swansea. Upon arrival, they found Edwards inside the semi-detached property, refusing to vacate the premises. Police had to intervene and physically remove her from the burning flat. Edwards, while being treated by paramedics, mentioned hearing voices that coerced her into setting the fire, claiming the voices compelled her actions.
A subsequent examination of the property indicated that the fire was likely a deliberate act, with the origin of the blaze traced back to the hallway. Extensive smoke and fire damage amounting to nearly £5,400 was inflicted upon the property. During police interviews, Edwards confessed that she had started the fire as a means to take her own life, expressing regret for her actions, and acknowledging the role of not taking her medication in the incident.
In court, Edwards, who resides in Townhill, Swansea, admitted guilt to arson and had three prior convictions for drug-related charges. Her defence lawyer detailed the challenging circumstances of her upbringing, marred by drug abuse within the family, influencing her own substance use as a coping mechanism. The court considered psychiatric reports and a supportive letter from a neighbour but emphasised the need for further rehabilitation work with Edwards before her reintegration into society.
Judge Catherine Richards, sentencing Edwards to 28 months in prison with a one-third discount for her guilty plea, highlighted the risks and dangers of starting fires in densely populated areas like Townhill. While acknowledging Edwards’ intent to self-harm rather than harm others, the judge underscored the influence of amphetamine consumption on her behaviour and stressed the necessity for continued support and intervention post-incarceration.
Given her troubled background and the circumstances leading to the arson, Edwards’ case exemplifies the complexities surrounding mental health and substance abuse issues in the justice system. The court’s decision to prioritise rehabilitation alongside punitive measures underscores the importance of addressing underlying factors contributing to criminal behaviour. As Edwards serves her sentence and receives support, the hope is that she can undergo meaningful rehabilitation and ultimately reintegrate back into the community as a healthier and safer individual.