Degrees of Arson in Muskogee
Arson is the felony crime of destroying property via explosives or fire. This is illegal in Oklahoma and can result in over 35 years in prison. The degree of arson depends on the severity and intention of the crime. People accused of arson in Muskogee should contact a Muskogee criminal defense attorney at their nearest convenience as this crime is no laughing matter.
First Degree Arson
First degree arson is the highest degree a person can be convicted of in Muskogee. The elements of first degree vary. A fairly common type of first degree arson is the willful destruction of a building, inhabited by people. This crime varies in its application to people.
For example, setting fire to another person constitutes first degree arson as well. Indirectly causing fires that burn buildings or people may also count as first degree arson. Indirectly causing a fire through the manufacturing of illegal substances is still arson in the first degree.
Penalties for this crime include a sentence of up to 35 years in state or federal penitentiary, $25,000 in fines, or both. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 §§ 1401
Second Degree Arson
Arson of the second degree shares many similarities with first degree arson. Where the two differ is that second degree arson applies to buildings without inhabitants. As an example, a person who burns down an abanded building may be charged with second degree arson.
Those convicted of arson in the second degree may face up to 25 years in prison, a fine of up to $20,000, or both. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 §§ 1402
Third Degree Arson
Third degree arson in Muskogee refers to the burning or destruction of property such as cars, bikes, trucks, trailers, farming equipment, etc. Complete or partial destruction of property both constitutes the charge of third degree arson.
Destroying any property worth over $50 via explosives or fire can be charged as third degree arson. Third degree arson pertains to insured property as well.
If convicted of third degree arson, you face a prison sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $10,000, or both. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 §§ 1403
Fourth Degree Arson
Unlike arson in the first through third degree, fourth degree arson is the attempt at committing arson. If a person pours or drenches property in any other flammable or explosive substance with the intent of destroying property, they are guilty of committing foruth degree arson.
This degree of arson is punishable by a prison sentence of up to 10 years, a $5,000 fine, or both. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 §§ 1404
Endangerment of Life During an Arson
Arson violations that endanger human life or emergency service personnel may be guilty of endangerment of life. This includes firefighters, emergency medical technicians, and law enforcement officers.
This means anyone charged and subsequently convicted of charges will face a sentence of between 3-to-10 years in prison. If another person is hurt because of the arson, the minimum prison sentence increases to 7 years. Fines for endangering the lives of others may not exceed $10,000. Both fines and a prison sentence may be applied if the court so decides. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 §§ 1405
Low-cost Consultation with Muskogee Felony Defense Attorney
Most parents warn their children of the dangers of fire. Some people never learn their lesson. Arson is a serious crime, and to fight an arson charge of any degree, perpetrators will need a good attorney. Call one now before you are convicted of arson!
Call (918) 884-7774 to set up a low-cost consultation with a criminal defense attorney in Muskogee. Feel free to also fill out our consultation form on this page. A Muskogee attorney will reach out to you as soon as possible.