Arson in Oklahoma is destructive. It can be done for monetary gain. Sometimes arson in Tulsa, Oklahoma is done for the thrill of it. In all cases, it destroys homes, can cause death, and can ruin people’s lives.
Defining Arson in Oklahoma
Arson is the intentional setting of a fire, with the intent to destroy a structure or its contents. It is always a felony.
In order to be found guilty, you can either set the fire, aid in the setting of the fire, or procure the services of someone else to set the fire. Arson includes setting a fire to defraud an insurer.
Oklahoma is a jurisdiction that classifies crimes by degree. Arson in Oklahoma can be classified as of the first, second, third, or fourth degree.
Penalties for Arson in Tulsa
Arson of the first degree is the willful and malicious setting fire to or burning of any structure in whole or in part via the use of explosive device, accelerant, ignition device, or the like at a time when the structure is inhabited by another person. It is a felony offense, punishable by up to 35 years in prison and a fine of up to $25,000. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 1401
Second-degree arson is similar. However, in second-degree arson, the structure is unoccupied at the time the fire is set.
However, if the property is one that is usually used for lodging, you can be charged with first-degree arson even if the building was unoccupied at the time the fire is set.
Second-degree arson is a felony punishable by up to 25 years in prison and a fine of up to $20,000. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 1402
Arson in the third degree involves using an explosive device to burn property valued at $50 or more. That property can include but is not limited to including automobiles, trucks, trailers, motorcycles, boats, standing farm crops, pastureland, or forestland. It is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 1403
Fourth-degree arson is the attempted burning of property. It too is a felony offense. This crime is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000. Okla. Stat. tit. 21 § 1404
Initial Strategy Session: Tulsa Criminal Defense Attorney
If you or someone you know has been accused of committing arson in Oklahoma, please contact a Tulsa criminal defense attorney to discuss your available legal options.
Consult with an experienced Tulsa attorney today by calling 918-756-9600.
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