Arson suspect hit with drug charges

A woman already suspected of setting an October fire at her Aulne home was arrested Friday for drug violations alleged to have occurred at the same time.

Julie Starks, 35, Peabody, was arrested at 5:07 p.m. on suspicion of possession of methamphetamines and drug paraphernalia, including small bags, a glass pipe, and scales.

Starks previously was arrested Nov. 30 on suspicion of arson in connection with an Oct. 17 fire that destroyed her Aulne home.

A district court complaint filed Jan. 2 said the alleged drug offenses occurred “on or about Oct. 17,” the same day as the fire.

Sheriff Robert Craft said evidence of drugs was found at the scene.

“In the course of the fire investigation it was determined there were some narcotics believed to be present,” Craft said.

Starks was released from jail Friday on $5,000 bond and faces a February court date on the drug charges.