A joint investigation by the Office of State Fire Marshal and the Yarmouth Police Department has led to the resolution of multiple arson cases in the Androscoggin County town of Poland and the Cumberland County town of Yarmouth.
Investigators have determined that seven fires occurring between November 2024 and March 2025 were intentionally set. These incidents included vacant buildings, construction sites, and a U.S. Forest Service sign:
• 11/17/2024 – Elan School, Poland (vacant building)
• 11/17/2024 – 508 West Main Street, Yarmouth (building materials)
• 01/02/2025 – 508 West Main Street, Yarmouth (vacant residence under construction)
• 03/01/2025 – Elan School, Poland (vacant building)
• 03/01/2025 – 14 Madeleine Point Road, Yarmouth (vacant residence)
• 03/07/2025 – Elan School, Poland (vacant building)
• 03/19/2025 – Princes Point Rd & Lafayette St, Yarmouth (U.S. Forest Service sign)
Arrests and Charges
Two 18-year-olds have been arrested and charged in connection with one fire each:
• James Akers, of Portland, was arrested on March 20, 2025, for the March 19 fire involving the U.S. Forest Service sign in Yarmouth. He was transported to the Cumberland County Jail and later released on bail.
• Jacob Kaiser, of Biddeford, was arrested on May 13, 2025, for the March 1 fire at 14 Madeleine Point Road in Yarmouth, which destroyed a single-family residence. He was transported to the Cumberland County Jail and later released on bail.
In addition, two 17-year-old juveniles have been identified as involved in these incidents. Due to their age, their names will not be released. They are expected to face charges as well.
While Akers and Kaiser have each been charged in connection with a single incident, evidence suggests both may be connected to additional fires, and other criminal activity within the same time period. Evidence in those cases will be presented to the Cumberland and Androscoggin County Grand Juries in the coming months. Additional charges are anticipated.
This remains an active and ongoing investigation.
Agencies Assisting:
• Maine Forest Service
• Yarmouth Fire Department
• Cumberland Police Department
• Portland Police Department
• Poland Fire Department
• Androscoggin County Sheriff’s Office
The cooperation of these agencies has been critical in advancing the investigation and bringing charges in these cases.
STATE OF MAINE
Department of Public Safety
Office of State Fire Marshal