MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Md. — A 16-year-old boy has been charged in connection with a recent fire in Montgomery County, which is now being investigated as an arson case, according to County Executive Marc Elrich. The announcement came during Elrich’s weekly media briefing, where he revealed that this is not the first time the teen has been implicated in such offenses.
The county executive expressed frustration over the handling of the case by the Maryland Department of Juvenile Services (DJS). He criticized the agency for releasing the teen without proper monitoring, despite his involvement in two similar incidents prior to the fire. Elrich emphasized the risks this decision posed to the community, highlighting the need for stricter measures when dealing with repeat offenders.
"I was angered and disappointed to hear that the Department of Juvenile Services released the juvenile again and did so without any kind of monitoring for him," Elrich stated during the briefing. "This juvenile clearly needs significant interventions. He needs help. The DGS has left both the community at risk and failed to provide a timely mechanism for this youth to receive support before they cause other harm."
The teen being charged has been detained.
The fire left several Clarksburg families without a place to call home on Saturday. An investigation revealed is was intentionally set.
"The fire left 24 apartments, uninhabitable and displaced 43 residents," Elrich said. "Two residents were treated for minor injuries. Three family pets were killed."
In response to the devastation, Clarksburg Closet (a local free thrift store run out of Cedarbrook Community Church) is collecting items to donate and help displaced residents.
Volunteers have already distributed new underwear, toothbrushes, toothpaste, suitcases and other small toiletries, and brought several residents directly to their location to shop for immediate clothing needs.