Arson in Douglas County, Colorado involves knowingly, intentionally, or recklessly setting fire to property. Damaging or destroying your own property or someone else’s property without their consent via burning or an explosive is unlawful in Castle Rock, Parker, and Highlands Ranch. The level of arson charge often depends on the type of property, who owns the property, the defendant’s intent, and the value of damage. Consulting an experienced arson defense attorney is essential when facing accusations of setting fire to property.
Douglas County Arson Laws
Douglas County’s arson laws prohibit damaging property by fire, burning, or explosives. C.R.S. 18-4-102 through 18-4-105 address the different levels of this criminal activity in Colorado. Arson is most often a felony offense. However, you commit misdemeanor arson if you:
- burn property that isn’t a building or occupied structure without the intent to defraud someone,
- AND the value of damage is less than $100,
- AND no one is endangered
Arson is considered a felony throughout the state of Colorado when:
- the property involved was a building or occupied structure,
- there was fraudulent intent,
- or the fire was started knowingly or intentionally, or in some cases recklessly
Arson is a detailed and complex crime in Douglas County, heightening the need for skilled legal representation capable of deciphering what does and doesn’t apply to your unique case.
What is the Prison Sentence for Arson in Colorado?
Each and every arson case is different. Therefore, sentencing for each case is as well. In general, conviction of first, second, third, or fourth degree arson can result in:
- 2 – 12 years in the Colorado Department of Corrections,
- fines of $2,000 – $750,000
However, penalties amplify when explosives are utilized in the destruction of property. Additionally, in some cases of 2nd degree arson or 4th degree arson, a misdemeanor can apply. When property is only endangered or the damage is under $100, penalties can include:
- up to 12 months in county jail,
- fines of $50 – $1,000
Douglas County Arson Defense Attorney
Sometimes campfires, fireworks, grills, or trash burning causes unpredictable damage to property. With Colorado’s history of devastating wildfires, any presumed act of arson is taken especially seriously. However, just because you’ve been charged with arson doesn’t mean you’re guilty. Perhaps the fire or explosion was an accident, arson wasn’t the cause of the fire, or there wasn’t any intent to defraud. Nevertheless, contact our office today for a free initial consultation. Our strategic criminal lawyers will carefully look over your unique case and recommend next steps in your defense.
If you or someone you know has been charged with arson in Colorado, be smart. Contact the skilled defense attorneys at Sawyer Legal Group, LLC at 303-731-0719. Together, we can protect your future.
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