When most people think of arson, they envision houses and businesses aflame with perpetrators motivated by revenge or insurance payouts. However, there are different types of arson, with five degrees of severity. Even if you did not intend to cause any harm, you might be subject to arson charges if the property was damaged due to your negligence with fire. The five degrees of arson have different penalties depending on the severity of the crime.
If you have been charged with arson in Southern Minnesota, it is essential to get a highly qualified criminal defense attorney on your side as soon as possible. Your attorney will make sure you understand the charges against you and negotiate on your behalf.
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Arson crimes in Minnesota are divided into five degrees, with the fifth degree being the least severe and the first degree being the most severe. It is important to understand the different degrees of arson to understand what you are being charged with and the penalties you could face.
Arson in the fifth degree is considered a misdemeanor offense. If a person sets fire to and burns any personal property of value, it would be considered fifth-degree arson.
For example, burning an ex’s belongings could be considered fifth-degree arson. The penalties for fifth-degree arson are up to 90 days in jail and fines up to $1,000.
Arson in the fourth degree is considered a gross misdemeanor offense. If a person sets fire to or burns personal property in a multi-unit residential building or public place it would be considered fourth-degree arson. Locations for fourth-degree arson include apartment buildings, hospitals, and churches. The penalties for fourth-degree arson are up to one year in jail and $3,000 in fines.
Only a small number of arson crimes are classified in the third degree. If a person intentionally sets fire to or burns personal property between $300 and $1,000 in value, the charge would be classified as third-degree arson. Additionally, if the property was unintentionally burned but could have been reasonably prevented or foreseen, the person responsible would be charged with arson in the third degree. The felony penalties for third-degree arson are up to 5 years in jail and fines up to $10,000.
Arson in the second degree is considered a felony offense. If a person intentionally sets fire to or burns personal property valued over $1,000, the crime is classified as arson in the second degree. The penalties for second-degree arson are up to 10 years in prison and up to $20,000 in fines.
First-degree arson is a felony that encompasses fires set to buildings. If a person intentionally sets fire to or burns a building used as a home or dwelling or is known to have occupants, the crime is classified as first-degree arson. Additionally, if you use accelerants such as kerosene to start a fire, you could be charged with arson in the first degree. The penalties for first-degree arson are up to 20 years in prison and, depending on the severity of the crime, fines up to $35,000.
If you are being charged with any degree of arson, it is critical to contact a skilled and experienced arson defense attorney as soon as you are able. Our skilled legal team at Knutson + Casey has helped thousands of clients navigate Minnesota’s legal system and have a solid reputation for success. To schedule a free consultation, call us at (507) 344-8888 or fill out our contact form today.