Arson in Harris County GA criminal law law firm
Columbus GA Criminal lawyer
Arson is an offense of general intent meaning that arson was committed “willfully and maliciously.” The only thing needed for an arson charge is proof that the individual intentionally lit the fire. The criminal intent with arson is intent to start a fire, even if there is no intent to burn a structure. A fire inspector must then testify in court that he/she also suspected arson, and then an expert witness must be called to support the fire inspectors views.
Arson is classified into 1st degree (homes, schools, churches), 2nd degree (unoccupied structures, vehicles), and 3rd degree (personal property). Because arson is a crime against possession, not ownership, a person may be charged with burning their own house, or committing arson against themselves.
A person assisting with the crime is usually charged with arson rather than being an accomplice to the crime. Pouring gasoline on the floor of a building or possessing firebombs may be offenses related to arson under certain state laws. Arson involving damage to federal property is almost always prosecuted in federal court, as is anything related to interstate or foreign transport.
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