Can you go to jail for starting a fire in Rhode Island?
Starting or attempting to start a fire which causes or could have caused destruction of property or injury to another is punishable. The consequences vary on the property and the injuries caused or that could have resulted, if it was an attempt. Just attempting to start a fire with criminal intent is a crime.
Setting fire to woodlands which run or spread at large is Sixth Degree Arson and punishable by imprisonment not exceeding 2 years or a fine no more than $1000 or both.
Furthermore, Seventh Degree Arson is setting a bonfire in a public street or land without permission can receive a fine of no more than $100.
Rhode Island General Laws § 11-2-7 Arson- Sixth Degree- Any person who knowingly causes, procures, aids or counsels the destruction of woodlands by fire which shall run and spread at large shall, upon conviction, be imprisoned not exceeding two (2) years, or shall be fined not more than one thousand dollars ($1,000), or both.
Rhode Island General Laws § 11-2-8 Arson- Seventh Degree- Every person who shall make a bonfire in any public street, road, square, land or rotary, without special permission from the local governing body, shall be fined not exceeding one hundred dollars ($100).
Fore more information on Arson charges and possible defenses contact RI Arson Lawyer John L. Calcagni, III.
