Arson is the intentional setting of fire to a dwelling or property of another
The crime of Arson is usually considered a crime against property. The property can be a private dwelling or a commercial building.
Most states no longer legally require that the property be a dwelling. The intentional act of burning personal property, structures, and enclosures such as a shed is sufficient to constitute the crime of Arson.
Although the crime is usually charged as a felony, the prosecutor will consider the surrounding circumstances, such as:
- The age of the accused
- The intent of the accused
- The ways in which the fire was caused
- Whether the fire resulted in physical injury or death
If charged as a felony, depending on your jurisdiction, the prison term can be as much as 15 years to a maximum sentence of 25 years.
