Couple Accused of Arson in South Dakota Steakhouse Fire
A couple is accused of torching their own South Dakota steakhouse.
Authorities say Charles and Kim Johnson are charged with felony arson and reckless burning. Each charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
The Johnsons were arrested in Nebraska and are having an extradition hearing in Knox County court on Thursday.
They formerly owned Libby’s Steakhouse in downtown Springfield, in South Dakota’s southeastern corner.
They’re accused of setting the restaurant on fire in October 2010. The Yankton Press and Dakotan reports the steakhouse and another business were destroyed and a third business was damaged.
An indictment says the Johnsons set the fire to collect insurance money.
The Johnsons have a court-appointed lawyer. He couldn’t be reached immediately for comment.
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