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Meridian Today
By the People, for the People
Boise Woman Indicted on Federal Arson Charges in Alleged Attempt to Burn DHS-Leased Building
Sarah Elizabeth George, 43, accused of stealing ambulance and trying to set fire to Meridian building partially occupied by Department of Homeland Security
Published on Feb. 26, 2026
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A Boise woman named Sarah Elizabeth George, 43, has been federally indicted after authorities allege she attempted to set fire to a Meridian, Idaho building that is partially leased by the Department of Homeland Security. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, George allegedly stole an ambulance on February 18, 2026, drove it into the Portico building, and then dumped gasoline inside the vehicle and building with the intent to ignite it.
Why it matters
This alleged arson attempt on a building partially occupied by the Department of Homeland Security raises serious concerns about domestic terrorism and threats to federal property and public safety. The Meridian area has seen an increase in politically-motivated crimes in recent years, though the specific motives behind this alleged incident remain unclear.
The details
George has been charged with two federal counts related to the alleged arson attempt - one for attempted malicious damage by fire to federal property, which carries a mandatory minimum of 7 years and up to 40 years in prison, and another for attempted damage to property used in interstate commerce by fire, which carries a mandatory minimum of 5 years and up to 20 years. Both charges also include potential fines of up to $250,000.
- On February 18, 2026, George allegedly stole an ambulance and drove it into the Portico building in Meridian.
- On February 26, 2026, a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment charging George with the alleged arson attempt.
The players
Sarah Elizabeth George
A 43-year-old woman from Boise, Idaho who has been federally indicted for allegedly attempting to set fire to a Meridian building partially leased by the Department of Homeland Security.
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Idaho
The federal prosecutors who have charged Sarah Elizabeth George with two counts of attempted arson related to the alleged incident in Meridian.
What’s next
The judge will determine whether to allow George to be released on bail as the case proceeds through the federal court system.
The takeaway
This alleged arson attempt on a federal building highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in addressing domestic terrorism threats and protecting critical infrastructure, even in smaller cities and suburbs like Meridian, Idaho.
