BENNETT, NC — On May 17, 2025, the Randolph County Sheriff’s Office responded to Lanes Mill Road in Bennett following a call reporting a burglary in progress. While deputies were en route, the caller informed dispatch that he had awoken to the smell of smoke inside the residence.
Upon arrival, fire personnel were already on the scene. The nature of the incident was quickly changed from burglary to residential fire after it was confirmed no break-in had occurred.
As the on-scene investigation continued, the Fire Marshal’s Office joined to conduct its own assessment. Based on the evidence collected and the overall circumstances, Edith Yessenia Molina was arrested and transported to the Randolph County Detention Center.
During the investigation, it was also discovered that Molina had an outstanding U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) warrant for deportation.
The magistrate found probable cause to charge Molina with:
Felony First-Degree Arson
Felony Burning of Personal Property
She was served with the ICE warrant and held without bond. Her first appearance in Randolph County District Court was scheduled for May 19, 2025.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has since placed a detainer on Molina.
