Powell sentenced to 7 years
Published 4:18 pm Thursday, June 5, 2008
Mikhael Powell, who was charged with arson in a 2007 fire that destroyed the old Hattiesburg High School building, has been sentenced to seven years in prison.
The 19-year-old Powell pleaded guilty Tuesday to arson. Forrest County Circuit Judge Robert Helfrich also placed Powell on three years of probation when he is released.
Powell was one of two suspects charged in the May 29, 2007, fire. Eighteen-year-old Jordan R. Poole, of Hattiesburg, is also charged with arson. Poole’s trial was initially set for April 9 but was delayed.
Prosecutors said Powell has agreed to testify against Poole.