Arson crimes in Oklahoma is not only a destructive crime but it also carries serious legal ramifications. Just last June, a woman in Del City was charged arson in the second degree for throwing an enflamed towel into her neighbor’s house. The key piece of evidence that led to her arrest was footage from her own outdoor surveillance camera. Oklahoma classifies arson into four degrees. Penalties for arson in Oklahoma vary depending on the degree of which you are convicted.

Arson: Crime & Penalties

Arson crimes are generally defined as the intentional setting or attempt to set fire to a property. Like most other crimes the intent do commit the act is central to the States efforts in getting a conviction. Its also important to understand that there are levels of intent and that level determines the range of punishment in the event you are found guilty of the crime. No matter the degree of arson you are charged with, a conviction will result in a felony.

First Degree Arson

· Willfully or maliciously setting fire by the use of an explosive, accelerant, or ignition device to a structure or building that is occupied by one or more persons; or

· Causing fire to a building that is occupied by one or more persons while producing or manufacturing a Controlled Dangerous Substance.

Punishment: Up to $25,000 fine and/or maximum of 35 years imprisonment.

Second Degree Arson

· Willfully or maliciously setting fire by the use of an explosive, accelerant, or ignition device to any unoccupied structure or building; or

· Causing fire while producing or manufacturing a Controlled Dangerous Substance to a structure that is unoccupied or uninhabited.

Punishment: Fine of more than $20,000 or by confinement in the State Penitentiary for up to 25 years, or both.

Third Degree

· Willfully or maliciously setting fire to or burning any property valued over Fifty Dollars ($50); or

· With intent to injure or defraud the insurer, willfully or maliciously setting fire to or burning or by use of any explosive device to destroy any property in whole or in part, which shall at the time be insured against loss or damage by fire or explosion, Tit. §1403;

Punishment: Fine not to exceed $10,000 and/or by confinement in the State Penitentiary for a maximum of 15 years.

Fourth Degree

· Willfully or maliciously attempting to set fire to or burn property through the use of any type of accelerant, ignition, or explosive device; or

· Putting any flammable, explosive or combustive material in an arrangement or preparation with intent to willfully and maliciously set fire to or burn or to procure the burning of any building or structure.

Punishment in Rogers County: A fine not to exceed Five Thousand Dollars ($5,000.00) or confinement in the State Penitentiary for not more than ten (10) years or both.

Keep in mind, someone can be guilty for arson even if they merely aided in the setting fire or burning of a structure or property. Arson in Oklahoma is a serious offense. A false accusation of such crime can have debilitating effects. Getting legal counsel is imperative when you are charged with a violent crime.

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Claremore Arson Crimes Defense Lawyers

In Oklahoma, violent felonies are not eligible for expungement. If you are charged with Arson in Oklahoma you could have a felony on your record permanently. Whether you want a reduced sentence or to avoid a conviction altogether, you will need to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney to assist you. Call today to talk to a Kania Law Office – Claremore Attorney about your arson crimes and how to fight them. 918-379-4872