Finnegan Fire Safety owners sentenced after guilty pleas

Couple pleaded guilty to charges in Rankin and Madison counties

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Daniel and Sherry Finnegan, owners of Finnegan Fire Safety Equipment, pleaded guilty to charges in Rankin and Madison counties in Mississippi. Daniel Finnegan was sentenced to 20 years with 7 years to serve, while Sherry Finnegan was sentenced to 5 years with 4 years suspended and 1 year to serve. The charges stem from an investigation involving 13 counties, with the Finnegans facing additional pending charges in 11 counties.

Why it matters

The case highlights issues with fraudulent fire safety equipment installation and inspections, which can pose serious risks to public safety. The Finnegans' guilty pleas and sentences aim to hold them accountable for their actions and provide some restitution to their victims.

The details

According to the Mississippi Office of the State Fire Marshal, the Finnegans were originally charged with a total of 41 counts each of false pretense, a felony, along with 37 counts each of violations of the Mississippi Fire Prevention Code, which are misdemeanors. The investigation found that confirmed victims paid the Finnegans a total of $343,162.69, though the full financial impact is likely higher due to additional costs incurred by victims to correct deficient installations and bring fire protection systems into compliance.

  • On Tuesday, the Finnegans pleaded guilty in Rankin County.
  • Daniel Finnegan was sentenced to 20 years, with 7 years to serve.
  • Sherry Finnegan was sentenced to 5 years, with 4 years suspended and 1 year to serve.

The players

Daniel Finnegan

Co-owner and employee of Finnegan Fire Safety Equipment, sentenced to 20 years with 7 years to serve.

Sherry Finnegan

Co-owner and employee of Finnegan Fire Safety Equipment, sentenced to 5 years with 4 years suspended and 1 year to serve.

Mississippi Office of the State Fire Marshal

The state agency that investigated the Finnegans and provided updates on the case.

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What they’re saying

“The state fire marshal's office said the plea agreements cover charges filed in both Rankin and Madison counties. Across the two counties, officials said 12 charges were filed against Daniel Finnegan and 12 against Sherry Finnegan stemming from six separate cases.”

— Mississippi Office of the State Fire Marshal (darkhorsepressnow.com)

What’s next

The Mississippi Office of the State Fire Marshal said it will continue to monitor remaining cases in other counties and provide updates as more information becomes available.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of proper fire safety equipment installation and inspection to protect public safety. The Finnegans' guilty pleas and sentences demonstrate that fraudulent practices in this industry will be met with serious consequences.