Staring a fire and causing damage to someone else’s property is charged as Second Degree Arson in Castle Rock and Douglas County. With the 4^th of July holiday, comes the use of fireworks – both legal and illegal. Sometimes, if not properly managed, those fireworks can cause serious damage. A group of juveniles is wanted for using fireworks and setting someone’s pickup truck on fire. According to the report, the kids were lighting fireworks in the street near the truck. A witness called 911 to report that the contents of the pickup had caught on fire, which in turn, set the vehicle aflame. If found, the 5 kids would likely be charged with Arson, specifically 2^nd Degree Arson.

Castle Rock Second Degree Arson Attorney: Definition of 2^nd Degree Arson in Douglas County

The Castle Rock and Douglas County, Colorado law definition of Second Degree Arson – C.R.S. 18-4-103 – is:

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(1) A person who knowingly sets fire to, burns, causes to be burned, or by the use of any explosive damages or destroys, or causes to be damaged or destroyed, any property of another without his consent, other than a building or occupied structure, commits second degree arson.”

Obviously, the owner of the truck did not consent to the children setting it on fire. The intent behind the crime can be difficult as it is likely the children did not intend to set the truck on fire, but they knowingly used an explosive, which caused the fire.

Sentence for 2^nd Degree Arson in Highlands Ranch and Estes Park

In Castle Rock, Highlands Ranch, and Estes Park, Second Degree Arson is a misdemeanor or felony depending on the amount of damage caused. If the damage caused is less than $100, then the person would be charged with the class 2 misdemeanor 2^nd Degree Arson. For damage totaling $100 or more, the class 4 felony Arson in the Second Degree would be charged. Honestly, it’s rare that a fire would cause less that $100 worth of damage. Definitely in the case above, the felony would be the resulting charge.

If you or a loved one has been charged with 2^nd Degree Arson, be smart, exercise your right to remain silent, and contact the best criminal defense attorneys from the O’Malley Law Office at 303-265-1950 to schedule your free consultation. Together, we can protect your future.

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