Michigan Man Gets 6–20 Years for Arson That Killed Girlfriend’s Two Cats

Overview

• Jesse Humphrey, 30, was sentenced Thursday after October convictions on two counts of second-degree arson and two counts of first-degree animal killing/torture.
• The Sept. 22, 2024 fire destroyed his then-girlfriend’s Warren home, and prosecutors say he knew her two cats were inside when he set the blaze.
• Circuit Judge Joseph Toia imposed a 6–20 year term with 438 days of jail credit, which prosecutors described as the top of the sentencing guidelines.
• Humphrey must pay $15,000 in restitution and is barred from any contact with the victim or her family, including through social media.
• Prosecutors upgraded the original animal-cruelty charge after a preliminary exam from a single third-degree count to two first-degree killing and torturing counts.