By Denise Lana,

Mindy Jones (left) entered the courtroom with her attorney. The 45-year-old was given the maximum sentence of 25 years for arson, and another two years for animal abuse. Jones was found guilty in November of starting a blaze in mid-February of 2023. The fire destroyed her business as well as its upper level apartments and damaged a neighboring building. (Photo by Denise Lana)
A former owner of a Waukon business who was found guilty of first-degree arson and animal abuse in November of 2024 appeared in an Allamakee County courtroom Monday, where a judge denied her request for acquittal and her motion for a new trial. The court imposed a full sentence, which the judge indicated was meant to provide Jones “maximum rehabilitation” and “protect the community.”
Mindy Jones, age 44, received a 25-year sentence for first-degree arson and two years for animal abuse. She must serve 70 percent of the cumulative 27-year sentence before becoming eligible for parole. Jones was convicted of starting the blaze which consumed her Waukon business as well as an adjacent building on Feb. 13, 2022. She was found guilty of animal abuse after a tenant’s dog perished after becoming trapped in the building and inhaling significant amounts of smoke. Prosecutors argued during trial that Jones had destroyed her business in an attempt to take advantage of insurance coverage amid mounting financial troubles.
Jones’ defense attorney, Aaron Hawbaker from Waterloo, argued Monday there was insufficient evidence showing the fire Jones started caused the death of the animal, and he asked the court for an acquittal of the charges. Prosecuting attorney Israel Koriaga countered, saying the evidence was sufficient and telling the court the state did not need to prove reasonable doubt in that specific instance.
Ultimately, presiding Judge Laura Parrish ruled in the state’s favor.
“This fire is one that spread very quickly, there was evidence it burned at a very high temperature, and anything in its path was at risk of serious harm, injury, death,” Parrish said. “There is sufficient evidence to let the jury’s verdict stand.”
The defense’s request for a new trial was soon shot down as well. Parrish stated there was simply too much evidence — provided by experts as well as lay witnesses — proving Jones’ guilt.
Full article available in the February 6 Decorah Leader.
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