Pennsylvania v. Michele Black—How an Unusual Electrical Fire Became a Train Wreck

The chapter details the case of Michele Black, who was falsely accused of arson in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, in 2012. An electrical fire broke out in her mother's former residence due to a phenomenon called “arc tracking” in a faulty outlet. However, investigators erroneously concluded it was intentionally set, charging Black with multiple felonies. The prosecution's case was flawed, with investigators failing to properly document the scene and misinterpreting evidence. They also introduced potentially fabricated photographs during the trial, showing cut and taped wires that were not present at the time of the fire, though the lead investigator falsely testified about when he first saw the cut wires. In a later proceeding, he admitted to being “mistaken” in that regard. The author testified for the defense, explaining the true cause of the fire and highlighting the inconsistencies in the prosecution's evidence. The jury quickly acquitted Black of all charges. Following her acquittal, Black filed a federal civil rights case against the Commonwealth's experts. Although initially dismissed, the Third Circuit Court of Appeals overturned the decision, ruling that fabricated evidence and perjury violated her civil rights, even without a conviction. The case was eventually settled with Black's estate after she passed away from breast cancer. The chapter serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of inexperienced investigators, the importance of thorough electrical fire investigations, and the potential for misconduct in law enforcement. It also emphasizes the need for better protections against overzealous prosecutions, especially in cases requiring specialized expertise.