Arson 2nd Degree Attorney Duluth, MN | MN 609.562

Fighting an Arson In The Second Degree Accusation in St. Louis County with a Dedicated Defense Attorney

The shock of being accused of arson in the second degree can feel like an internal explosion, leaving your life in ruins even before a conviction. Suddenly, the quiet stability of your world, whether in Duluth, Cloquet, or the more remote communities of Two Harbors or Bemidji, is replaced by fear and uncertainty. You might immediately envision the whispers spreading through Proctor, your reputation—carefully built over years—collapsing under the weight of an accusation that implies malicious intent and disregard for others’ property. The prospect of losing your job, the damage to your standing in a close-knit community, and the profound impact on your family’s future are not just possibilities; they are immediate, chilling realities that demand an urgent and powerful response.

When the state targets you with a charge as serious as arson in the second degree, you are not merely facing a legal hurdle; you are confronting the full, relentless force of the Minnesota legal system. This isn’t a moment for hesitation or for hoping the situation will resolve itself. It is a critical battle for your freedom, your livelihood, and your very identity. An accusation is not the end of your life; it is the beginning of a fight, and you need an advocate who understands the stakes, who is prepared to challenge every piece of the prosecution’s case, and who will forge a clear path forward through strength, strategic planning, and an unwavering commitment to your defense.

The Stakes: What a Conviction Truly Costs

An arson in the second degree conviction is far more than a legal judgment; it’s a permanent stain that can derail your life, imposing severe collateral consequences that will follow you long after your time in court is over. Understanding these profound and lasting impacts underscores the absolute necessity of a robust and aggressive defense.

Your Permanent Criminal Record

A conviction for arson in the second degree in St. Louis County or anywhere in Minnesota will result in a permanent felony criminal record. This isn’t a temporary setback; it’s a mark that will be publicly accessible and visible on background checks for the rest of your life. This record can haunt your future, making it incredibly difficult to secure new employment, pursue educational opportunities, or even participate fully in your community. The social stigma associated with an arson conviction is particularly severe, often leading to ostracization and distrust. This permanent branding can limit your options and define how others perceive you, regardless of your rehabilitation efforts or the passage of time.

Loss of Second Amendment Rights

One of the most significant and immediate collateral consequences of a felony arson in the second degree conviction is the permanent forfeiture of your Second Amendment rights. This means you will lose your legal ability to own or possess firearms, a fundamental right cherished by many individuals across Minnesota, particularly those who live in rural areas like Two Harbors or Bemidji where hunting and self-defense are common. This loss is not easily reversible and can profoundly impact your lifestyle, recreational activities, and sense of security. It serves as a constant, tangible reminder of your conviction, affecting you long after any sentence is served.

Barriers to Employment and Housing

A felony conviction for arson in the second degree creates significant and often insurmountable barriers to stable employment and housing. Most employers conduct thorough background checks, and a conviction for a crime involving property destruction and malicious intent will almost certainly lead to immediate disqualification, regardless of your qualifications or experience. Securing housing also becomes a formidable challenge, as landlords in Duluth and Proctor are often reluctant to rent to individuals with serious felony records, fearing liability or property damage. This can trap you in a cycle of economic instability and homelessness, making it incredibly difficult to rebuild your life and find a secure place in society.

Impact on Professional Licenses and Reputation

For individuals holding professional licenses – whether in healthcare, finance, real estate, or any other regulated industry – an arson in the second degree conviction can lead to the immediate suspension or permanent revocation of that license. Licensing boards often view such convictions as evidence of moral turpitude or a direct threat to public safety and trust. Beyond professional repercussions, your personal reputation within your community, particularly in smaller towns like Cloquet, will likely be shattered. The accusation alone can breed suspicion and distrust, isolating you from friends, neighbors, and social circles. Rebuilding trust and restoring your good name after such a conviction is an arduous and often lifelong endeavor, underscoring the devastating impact on your standing and future.

The Accusation: Understanding the State’s Case

Facing an accusation of arson in the second degree means grappling with specific legal definitions and the high burden of proof that rests squarely on the prosecution. Understanding the nuances of what the state must allege and prove is the foundational step in building your defense.

What Does the State Allege? Arson In The Second Degree Explained in Plain English

Arson in the second degree in Minnesota primarily concerns the intentional destruction or damage of a building not classified under first-degree arson, or of other significant real or personal property. Unlike first-degree arson, which typically involves an occupied dwelling or a clear threat to human life, second-degree arson often applies to non-dwelling structures like commercial buildings, warehouses in Cloquet, or even larger pieces of personal property exceeding a certain value. The key is that the act of damage or destruction must be intentional and caused by fire or explosives.

This charge covers a broad range of scenarios, from setting fire to a vacant building in Duluth to intentionally damaging a high-value piece of equipment or property in St. Louis County with explosives. The law also explicitly states that it applies “whether the property of the actor or another,” meaning you can be charged with second-degree arson even if you damage or destroy property that you own, if the intent to defraud an insurer, for example, is present, or if others have an interest in the property. The prosecution must demonstrate that you deliberately caused the fire or explosion that led to the damage, not that it was accidental or negligent.

The Law on the Books: Minnesota Statute 609.562

Minnesota Statute 609.562 specifically defines the crime of Arson in the Second Degree. This statute outlines the types of property involved and the intentional nature of the act, distinguishing it from other degrees of arson. It sets forth the framework within which prosecutors will attempt to prove their case against an individual accused of this serious crime.

609.562 ARSON IN THE SECOND DEGREE.

Whoever unlawfully by means of fire or explosives, intentionally destroys or damages any building not covered by section 609.561, no matter what its value, or any other real or personal property valued at more than $1,000, whether the property of the actor or another, may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than ten years or to payment of a fine of not more than $20,000, or both.

The Prosecution’s Burden: Elements of Arson In The Second Degree

For the state to secure a conviction for arson in the second degree, they must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt, every single “element” of the crime as defined by Minnesota Statute 609.562. If the prosecution fails to establish even one of these elements to the satisfaction of a judge or jury, the case against you must fail. This is the battleground where a dedicated defense attorney will focus their efforts, meticulously examining each piece of evidence the state presents and identifying where their proof falls short. My strategy is to expose these deficiencies and create the necessary reasonable doubt.

Unlawfully by Means of Fire or Explosives: The prosecution must prove that the destruction or damage was caused by fire or explosives, and that the act was “unlawful.” This element differentiates criminal acts from controlled burns or demolition carried out legally. For example, if a building was burned down as part of a permitted demolition project, it would not be “unlawful” under this statute. I will scrutinize how the fire or explosive was determined to be the cause and whether the act truly lacked lawful authority.
Intentionally Destroys or Damages: This is a critical element focusing on your state of mind. The state must prove that you acted with the specific intent to destroy or damage the property. It’s not enough to show that a fire occurred; they must show you purposely caused it to inflict damage. If the fire was accidental, caused by negligence, or started by an outside factor, the prosecution cannot prove this element. This often involves examining your actions, statements, and any potential motives, all of which can be challenged.
Any Building Not Covered by Section 609.561 OR Any Other Real or Personal Property Valued at More Than $1,000: The prosecution must prove that the property damaged fits the specific definition under this statute. This includes any building that isn’t a dwelling or doesn’t meet the criteria for first-degree arson (covered by 609.561). Alternatively, it can be any other real or personal property (like vehicles, machinery, or land) if its value exceeds $1,000. I will challenge the valuation of the property if it’s a non-building item, or argue that the building falls under a different, lesser charge, or was not a “building” as legally defined.
Whether the Property of the Actor or Another: This element clarifies that you can be charged with second-degree arson even if you own the property in question, provided the other elements are met. This often comes into play in cases involving insurance fraud, where an individual might destroy their own property to collect insurance money. The state must prove the intentional act of destruction, regardless of ownership, where an unlawful purpose (like fraud) is implied.

The Potential Outcome: Penalties for an Arson In The Second Degree Conviction

An arson in the second degree conviction carries extremely severe statutory penalties in Minnesota, reflecting the gravity of the crime. Unlike some offenses with multiple degrees, Minnesota Statute 609.562 outlines a single, serious penalty bracket for this particular charge. Understanding these potential outcomes reinforces the critical need for a powerful and strategic defense to protect your future.

A conviction for Arson in the Second Degree can result in:

Imprisonment: You may be sentenced to imprisonment for not more than ten years. This is a substantial period of incarceration, meaning a significant portion of your life could be spent in a state correctional facility, far from your family and your life in Duluth or Bemidji.
Fines: In addition to, or in lieu of, imprisonment, you may face a significant fine of not more than $20,000. This financial penalty can be crushing, potentially leading to long-term debt and financial instability, even if you avoid prison time.
Both Imprisonment and Fine: It is also possible for the court to impose both a prison sentence and a substantial fine, maximizing the punitive impact of the conviction.

Beyond these statutory penalties, as discussed earlier, you will also face the devastating collateral consequences, including a permanent felony record, loss of Second Amendment rights, and significant barriers to employment and housing, fundamentally altering your life in St. Louis County.

The Battle Plan: Building Your Strategic Defense

An accusation of arson in the second degree is a direct assault on your life, but it is not a declaration of defeat. It is a moment that demands a fierce, strategic response. This is not the time for passive acceptance; it is the absolute moment to initiate a proactive, counter-offensive defense that challenges every assumption and every piece of evidence the state presents. The prosecution, with all its power, must prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt, and my job is to ensure they cannot.

My defense strategy is built on the unwavering principle that every aspect of the state’s case must be rigorously tested and challenged. This means a relentless examination of how the investigation was conducted, the reliability of their forensic evidence, the credibility of every witness, and whether your constitutional rights were upheld at every turn. I will not merely react to their moves; I will dissect their claims, expose their weaknesses, and aggressively pursue every avenue to create reasonable doubt. This fight is for your freedom, your future, and your reputation, and it begins with a comprehensive, assertive defense designed to dismantle the charges against you.

How an Arson In The Second Degree Charge Can Be Challenged in Court

Challenging an arson in the second degree charge requires a meticulous and aggressive defense strategy that targets the state’s ability to prove each element of the crime. There are several powerful legal avenues that can be pursued to undermine the prosecution’s case and protect your rights.

Challenging the Investigation and Evidence

The foundation of any arson case is the investigation itself and the evidence collected. If there are flaws in this process, the entire prosecution can be jeopardized. My approach involves a microscopic examination of every detail to expose weaknesses.

Improper Evidence Collection and Preservation: Fire scenes are complex, and errors in collecting or preserving evidence can occur. If investigators failed to follow proper protocols, such as using contaminated equipment, improper packaging of accelerant samples, or breaking the chain of custody, the reliability and admissibility of that evidence can be challenged in court. For instance, if accelerant residues are found, but the sample was improperly stored, it could have degraded or become contaminated, rendering it unreliable.
Flawed Forensic Analysis and Expert Testimony: Arson cases frequently rely on forensic analysis of burn patterns, accelerants, and other physical evidence. However, forensic science is not infallible, and interpretations can be subjective. I will challenge the state’s forensic methodologies, the qualifications or biases of their “experts,” and whether their conclusions are truly supported by scientific principles. This might involve commissioning an independent fire investigator or chemist to provide an alternative, more accurate analysis of the evidence.
Inadequate Fire Cause Determination: The origin and cause of a fire can be incredibly difficult to ascertain definitively. Fire investigators often rely on assumptions or incomplete data. I will scrutinize the fire marshal’s report, questioning the methods used to determine the cause of the fire. If the cause was initially misidentified or if alternative accidental causes (like electrical malfunctions, spontaneous combustion, or even lightning strikes) were not thoroughly investigated, it can create significant doubt about the prosecution’s theory of intentional arson.
Lack of Corroboration for Circumstantial Evidence: Arson cases often rely heavily on circumstantial evidence (e.g., financial difficulties, opportunity, past conflicts). While circumstantial evidence can be used, it must be compelling and corroborated. I will argue that the state’s circumstantial evidence does not definitively point to you as the perpetrator and that other plausible explanations exist, thereby highlighting the lack of concrete proof.

Lack of Intent

A cornerstone of arson in the second degree is the requirement of “intentional” destruction or damage. If intent cannot be proven, the charge cannot stand.

Accidental Fire: The most direct challenge to intent is demonstrating that the fire was purely accidental. This could involve evidence of faulty wiring, improperly stored materials, an unextinguished cigarette, or even acts of nature. My investigation will seek out and present all possible non-criminal causes of the fire, thereby negating the element of deliberate intent.
Negligence vs. Intent: There is a critical legal distinction between acting negligently (carelessly) and acting with criminal intent. While a negligent act might lead to a fire, it does not meet the specific intent required for an arson conviction. I will argue that any action on your part, if it contributed to the fire, was at most a matter of unfortunate carelessness rather than a purposeful act of destruction.
No Motive: While not a legal element, the absence of a clear motive can significantly weaken the prosecution’s argument that you acted intentionally. If there’s no evidence of financial gain, personal vendetta, or other logical reason for you to have intentionally set the fire, it becomes much harder for the state to convince a judge or jury of your criminal purpose.

Alibi

If you can conclusively prove you were elsewhere when the fire occurred, it provides a powerful, often irrefutable, defense against the accusation.

Verifiable Location: Presenting concrete evidence that places you at a different, distinct location at the exact time the fire started can dismantle the prosecution’s ability to link you to the crime scene. This evidence can include credit card receipts from another town, cell phone tower data, GPS logs from your vehicle, or surveillance video from a different building.
Credible Witness Testimony: Witnesses who can corroborate your presence at another location at the critical time are invaluable. These witnesses will be thoroughly vetted to ensure their testimony is consistent, credible, and can withstand cross-examination, adding a human element to your alibi.
Travel Records: If the fire occurred while you were out of town or traveling, official records such as airline tickets, hotel reservations, or toll booth records can provide objective and verifiable proof of your absence from the scene, making it impossible for you to have committed the alleged crime.

Constitutional Violations

Law enforcement and prosecutors must adhere to strict constitutional guidelines throughout an investigation and arrest. Violations of these rights can lead to the suppression of key evidence or even the dismissal of charges.

Fourth Amendment Violations (Unlawful Search and Seizure): If evidence was obtained through an illegal search of your property without a warrant, probable cause, or valid consent, that evidence may be deemed inadmissible in court. This “fruit of the poisonous tree” doctrine can severely cripple the prosecution’s case if crucial evidence was unconstitutionally obtained.
Fifth Amendment Violations (Miranda Rights): If law enforcement questioned you while in custody without first informing you of your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney (Miranda warnings), any statements you made during that interrogation may be suppressed. This can remove damaging confessions or admissions from the prosecution’s arsenal.
Sixth Amendment Violations (Right to Counsel): Your right to an attorney is fundamental. If you were denied access to counsel when you requested it, or if your attorney was ineffective in some way, it could lead to grounds for appeal or dismissal, as your ability to mount a defense was compromised.

Defense in Action: Scenarios in Northern Minnesota

Applying legal principles to real-world situations illuminates how a focused defense can dismantle an arson in the second degree accusation, particularly in the unique context of Northern Minnesota.

The Bemidji Business Break-in and Fire

In Bemidji, a small, unoccupied business on the outskirts of town suffers a break-in, followed by a fire that causes significant damage. The owner’s former business partner, who had a bitter falling out over financial matters, becomes the prime suspect. Police discover an old, angry email from the partner to the owner and note that the partner had knowledge of the building’s layout.

In this scenario, a defense focusing on Challenging the Investigation and Evidence would be crucial. The attorney would immediately push for a re-examination of the break-in, demanding forensic analysis for signs of forced entry that might have been overlooked, or third-party DNA/fingerprints from an actual intruder. The defense would also scrutinize the fire marshal’s report, looking for any evidence of faulty wiring or other accidental causes that could have been misattributed to arson. The email, while showing motive, is circumstantial; the defense would argue it doesn’t prove an intentional fire, especially if other factors could have caused it.

The Cloquet Cabin Fire

A remote hunting cabin near Cloquet, rarely used by its owner, burns to the ground. The owner, a city resident, had recently been struggling to sell the property. Local residents report seeing a familiar-looking pickup truck, similar to one owned by the owner’s distant relative, leaving the area shortly before the fire was discovered. Investigators suspect insurance fraud.

This case demands a strong Alibi defense for the owner. If the owner was truly in the city at the time of the fire, concrete proof of their location, such as cell phone tower data placing their phone miles away, credit card receipts from urban establishments, or reliable witness testimony from colleagues or friends, would be paramount. Even if the relative’s truck was seen, the defense for the owner would focus on their verifiable absence. Furthermore, the defense might also challenge the Lack of Intent by investigating if an electrical fault in the old cabin’s wiring or a lightning strike during a storm could have caused the fire, thereby providing an alternative, non-criminal explanation.

The Proctor Storage Unit Blaze

A large storage facility in Proctor experiences a fire that damages several units. One unit, containing valuable vintage car parts, is completely destroyed. The unit’s renter, who had recently increased the insurance policy on the contents, is questioned by police and makes some inconsistent statements during an un-Mirandized interview while “assisting” with the investigation.

Here, a defense based on Constitutional Violations would be paramount. The defense attorney would immediately seek to suppress any statements made by the client during the un-Mirandized interview, arguing they were obtained in violation of their Fifth Amendment rights. Without those statements, the prosecution’s case—especially regarding intent or motive—might significantly weaken. Additionally, the defense would challenge the Investigation and Evidence by bringing in an independent fire investigator to examine whether the fire originated in an adjacent unit due to accidental causes, and then spread, rather than originating in the client’s unit intentionally.

The Two Harbors Dock Fire

A private boat dock and a small, attached shed on Lake Superior near Two Harbors are damaged by fire. A disgruntled former employee of the dock owner is quickly identified as a suspect due to past threats and a history of disputes. The police question the former employee at length at their home without advising them of their rights, and they admit to being in the area that night.

In this scenario, the primary defense would involve arguing Constitutional Violations, specifically a Fifth Amendment violation if the “admission” to being in the area was obtained during a custodial interrogation without Miranda warnings. Any statements made under such circumstances would be challenged and moved for suppression. Beyond that, the defense would also focus on challenging the Lack of Intent by investigating if the fire could have been caused by an accidental event, such as a dropped cigarette from a passerby, or a spontaneous combustion of materials left on the dock, rather than a deliberate act by the former employee, regardless of their disgruntled state.

The Advocate: Why a Dedicated Duluth Defense Attorney is Essential

Facing an accusation of arson in the second degree means confronting a daunting challenge. You are up against the full machinery of the state of Minnesota, with its vast resources and its singular focus on securing a conviction. This is not a battle you should ever attempt to fight alone. You need a dedicated, relentless advocate by your side—a fighter who understands the profound stakes and possesses the strategic acumen to dismantle the prosecution’s case.

Countering the Resources of the State

The state of Minnesota operates with virtually limitless resources: a highly trained cadre of prosecutors, advanced state crime labs, seasoned fire marshals, and an extensive network of law enforcement investigators. Their combined power is formidable, and they are all aligned with one objective: to secure a conviction against you for arson in the second degree. To effectively counter this immense force, you need an attorney who can not only match their legal expertise but also strategically disrupt their approach. I understand how to meticulously scrutinize every piece of evidence they present, challenge their “expert” witnesses, expose procedural missteps, and, when necessary, bring in independent investigators and forensic specialists to present a compelling alternative narrative. My unwavering commitment is to ensure that their overwhelming resources do not translate into an unjust conviction against your name.

Strategic Command of the St. Louis County Courts

Successfully navigating the intricate legal landscape of St. Louis County and the surrounding areas demands far more than a general understanding of criminal law. It requires an intimate, street-level knowledge of the local courtrooms, the individual judges, the specific prosecuting attorneys, and even the unwritten protocols that can influence the trajectory of your case. Whether your case unfolds in the busy Duluth courthouse or in a smaller venue in Two Harbors or Proctor, my deep familiarity with these judicial environments provides a critical strategic advantage. I understand the nuances of local procedure, the predispositions of key players, and the most effective arguments that resonate within these specific courts, allowing me to position your case for the most favorable outcome, whether through aggressive negotiation or a tenacious trial defense.

Fighting for Your Story, Not Just the Police Report

When an arson in the second degree charge is levied against you, the initial police report frequently becomes the de facto “truth” in the eyes of the prosecution, often overlooking crucial details, alternative explanations, or the human context of your situation. The state’s entire case is often built upon this one-sided narrative, designed to fit their pre-conceived conclusion. My unwavering commitment is to dismantle that narrow, often misleading, narrative and fight relentlessly to ensure your complete story—the real story—is heard and understood. This involves delving deep into the circumstances surrounding the accusation, understanding your character, your motivations, and the complex factors that led to this crisis. I will meticulously gather evidence that supports your truth, expose inconsistencies in the prosecution’s version, and present a compelling, humanized account to the court, ensuring you are seen as more than just a name on a police report, but as an individual whose life hangs in the balance.

An Unwavering Commitment to a Winning Result

My commitment to your defense against an arson in the second degree charge is absolute and uncompromising. I approach every case with the profound understanding that your freedom, your hard-earned reputation, and your entire future hang precariously in the balance. This is not merely a legal task; it is a fierce battle for your life, and I embrace that responsibility with an unparalleled determination. From the very moment you entrust me with your defense, you gain a dedicated advocate who will tirelessly pursue every available avenue to secure a winning result. Whether that demands aggressive negotiation to achieve a dismissal, a relentless challenge to every piece of evidence at trial, or meticulously crafting a favorable plea agreement, my unwavering focus remains solely on achieving the optimal outcome for you. Your fight becomes my fight, and I will be relentless in safeguarding your rights and ensuring the best possible future.

Your Questions Answered

What does “unlawfully” mean in the context of arson in the second degree?

“Unlawfully” means that the act of causing the fire or explosion was not authorized by law. This differentiates criminal arson from legitimate activities like controlled burns by fire departments or authorized demolitions that involve fire or explosives.

Can I be charged with arson in the second degree for damaging my own property?

Yes, Minnesota Statute 609.562 explicitly states “whether the property of the actor or another.” This means you can be charged if you intentionally destroy your own property by fire or explosives, often in cases where there is intent to defraud an insurance company.

What is the difference between first-degree and second-degree arson?

First-degree arson (609.561) typically involves a dwelling (occupied or not) or property that poses an immediate risk of bodily harm or death. Second-degree arson (609.562) covers other types of buildings and real or personal property valued over $1,000, without the explicit threat to human life defined in first degree.

How much property damage needs to occur for a second-degree arson charge?

For “any other real or personal property,” the value of the damaged or destroyed property must be “more than $1,000.” For “any building not covered by section 609.561,” its value is irrelevant; any damage from intentional fire or explosives qualifies.

What should I do if I am questioned by fire investigators?

Do not make any statements to fire investigators without an attorney present. They often work closely with law enforcement and any information you provide can be used to build a criminal case against you. Politely decline to answer questions and request legal counsel.

Is arson in the second degree always a felony?

Yes, arson in the second degree under Minnesota Statute 609.562 is a felony offense, carrying significant potential prison time and substantial fines. A conviction will result in a permanent felony record.

What if I believe the fire was accidental but I am still charged?

If you believe the fire was accidental, it is crucial for your attorney to investigate all possible non-criminal causes, such as electrical malfunctions, natural gas leaks, or spontaneous combustion. An independent fire investigator may be necessary to counter the prosecution’s findings.

Can an arson in the second degree charge be reduced to a lesser offense?

Yes, depending on the evidence and the specific circumstances of your case, your attorney may be able to negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce the charge to a lesser offense, such as reckless burning, or even secure a dismissal.

How important is intent in an arson in the second degree case?

Intent is a cornerstone of an arson in the second degree charge. The prosecution must prove you intentionally destroyed or damaged the property by fire or explosives. If they cannot prove specific intent, the charge cannot stand.

What defenses are common in arson in the second degree cases?

Common defenses include demonstrating lack of intent (e.g., accidental fire), presenting a strong alibi, challenging the prosecution’s forensic evidence and investigation methods, and arguing that constitutional rights were violated during the investigation.

Will an arson conviction affect my ability to get insurance in the future?

Yes, an arson conviction will almost certainly make it extremely difficult, if not impossible, to obtain property insurance, fire insurance, or even certain types of liability insurance in the future, as you would be considered a high risk.

What kind of “buildings” are covered by Arson in the Second Degree?

This statute covers any building not already covered by First-Degree Arson (609.561). This includes commercial buildings, vacant structures, sheds, detached garages, barns, or any building where the immediate threat to human life isn’t the primary factor in the charge.

What is the typical process for an arson in the second degree case?

The process usually involves an investigation, potential arrest, formal charging, initial court appearances, discovery (exchange of evidence), pre-trial motions (e.g., to suppress evidence), negotiation, and potentially a trial. Your attorney guides you through each step.

How quickly should I hire an attorney after being accused?

You should hire a criminal defense attorney immediately. The earlier an attorney gets involved, the better they can protect your rights, advise you on interactions with law enforcement, and begin building a strong defense from the outset, often before charges are even formally filed.

What is “property of another” in relation to this statute?

“Property of another” refers to any property in which someone other than the accused has a legal interest, even if the accused also has an interest. This prevents individuals from burning property they jointly own or property where others have a claim (e.g., a mortgage holder, a renter).