Inmate Charged with Arson After Setting Fires Inside Kemper County Jail Cell

DEKALB – Authorities say a Kemper County inmate is facing an arson charge after allegedly setting multiple fires inside his cell at the Kemper/Neshoba Regional Correctional Facility on Sunday afternoon.

According to officials, the incident happened around 2:43 p.m. on August 10, 2025, in the F-Zone lockdown area of the facility. Investigators say Jamarius Rush used a lighter to ignite Styrofoam cups, then escalated to burning clothing and other items, placing the burning materials outside his cell through the food tray slot.

The repeated ignitions reportedly caused Rush to suffer burns to his right hand. Authorities say his actions created a dangerous situation for himself, other inmates, and facility staff.

Rush was charged with one count of arson and issued a $10,000 bond. He is scheduled to appear in court on October 27, 2025.