Michele Keech Charged with Arson, Cruelty to Animals After Allegedly Setting Fire to Home

A Greene woman was charged with arson and cruelty to animals Monday. State Police at Norwich arrested 62-year-old Michele Keech, of Greene, for arson in the third degree, a Class C felony, and felony aggravated cruelty to animals.

The charges stem from an investigation that was conducted after patrols responded to a report of a despondent woman at 700 State Route 206 in the Town of Greene.

Investigation into the matter revealed that Keech had allegedly set fire to the basement of her residence, causing extensive damage and killing 33 dogs located inside.

Keech was arraigned in the town of Coventry court and released on her own recognizance pending future court appearances.