Burglary, arson charges dismissed in Clifton fire

BANGOR – Burglary and arson charges against a 32-year-old woman were dismissed Thursday in Penobscot County Superior Court. Deputy District Attorney Michael Roberts cited lack of evidence as a reason for seeking the dismissal.

Margaret Bonville was arrested a year ago in connection with a burglary and fire at the Clifton home of an elderly woman. Bonville allegedly set the fire in an apparent attempt to obliterate any evidence of the burglary, according to authorities.

The fire was started with bills and other papers left on a gas stove that ignited during the burglary, but went out before doing any major damage.

Bonville was arrested in Portland after fleeing the Clifton area. She had been hitchhiking on Route 9 in the area at the time of the burglary, according to police. Bonville was free on bail pending court action.