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Ga. Woman Claiming Obama-Related Arson Arrested For Fire

Posted: 3:37 pm EST February 6, 2009Updated: 4:05 pm EST February 6, 2009

Forsyth County officials said a woman who claimed her house was set on fire because she supported President Barack Obama has been charged with the arson herself.

Fire Department spokesman Capt. Jason Shivers says authorities charged 47-year-old Pamela Graf with the arson Friday.

Graf's boyfriend, 46-year-old Steve Strobel, also was arrested.

Graf's home was destroyed on Jan. 18 while she was allegedly in Washington, D.C., attending the inauguration. Officials found spray-painted graffiti that included a racial slur and ruled the fire an arson.

The fire, which was heavily involved upon the fire department's arrival, resulted in a total loss of the structure.

“These charges are based on information obtained through scene investigation, interviews and search warrants,” Fire Department Chief Investigator Steve Anderson said. “I would like to commend the entire Investigations Division staff for their fine and diligent work in this case.”

Anderson noted the investigation is continuing and additional charges could be forthcoming.

Both Graf and Strobel were arrested on other charges February 3. Graf’s arrest stemming from drug charges unrelated to the fire and Strobel being arrested on charges of obstruction of justice and giving false statements.

Both remain in the Forsyth County Detention Center.

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