One serious crime in Colorado is arson. It is treated as especially heinous and comes with serious penalties.
The definition of arson
States have different standards for how property crimes like arson are treated. In Colorado, arson is considered to have happened if it can be proven that:
- a fire was intentionally set that damaged or destroyed property
- a fire was recklessly started that damaged or destroyed property
- an explosive was used to damage or destroy property
If this can be proven to a jury, a conviction can be obtained. The fact a person burned their own property is also not a complete defense against the crime of arson. This is often true for cases of fraud such as trying to falsely obtain an insurance payout. Arson of one’s own property that destroys another person’s property afterwards can also be charged in this fashion.
Kinds of arson in Colorado
Arson in Colorado is divided into four separate degrees. This includes 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th. They are differentiated based on different criteria. This includes the severity of the danger posed. 4th degree arson must have involved a fire that placed someone in danger. 1st degree arson, on the other hand, must have involved the intentional burning of a building or an occupied structure.
The different degrees of arson are also punished differently. A 1st degree arson charge can result in 4 to 12 years in prison and a fine of up to $750,000. A 4th degree charge, on the other hand, can result in 2 to 6 years in prison and a fine of up to $500,000. 1st degree arson is considered a Class 3 felony. 3rd and 4th degree arson are considered Class 4 felonies. 2nd degree arson, however, may be charged as a misdemeanor, felony or even simply a petty crime depending on the circumstances.
