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ARSON CHARGES IN KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI

Arson is one of the most serious criminal charges in Missouri, carrying severe penalties that can include lengthy prison sentences and significant fines. Under Section 569 of Missouri law, arson is defined as the act of knowingly setting fire to a building or an inhabitable structure. This crime can be committed by intentionally starting a fire or causing an explosion, and the law is written broadly to cover a wide range of acts that could lead to arson charges.
If you are facing arson charges in Missouri, it is crucial to seek legal counsel from an experienced Missouri criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Even if you believe the fire was an accident or that you had a valid reason for starting it, you could still face serious consequences under Missouri’s strict arson laws.

TYPES OF ARSON CHARGES IN MISSOURI

Missouri categorizes arson into three different degrees, ranging from the least severe charge—arson in the third degree—to the most serious charge—arson in the first degree.
The difference between these charges depends on several factors, including:
  • The type of property that was damaged
  • Whether the fire was started intentionally or recklessly
  • Whether the perpetrator knew people were present in or near the structure
  • Whether the fire or explosion caused injury or death
Arson can be classified as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the severity of the offense. The more serious the charges, the harsher the penalties. Let’s take a closer look at each category of arson in Missouri and the potential consequences.

ARSON IN THE THIRD DEGREE

Arson in the third degree is considered the least serious form of arson under Missouri law. However, it is still a criminal offense that can result in jail time.
A person commits arson in the third degree when they:
  • Knowingly start a fire or cause an explosion, and
  • Recklessly damage or destroy a building or inhabitable structure that belongs to someone else.
This charge is usually applied when someone’s reckless behavior with fire or explosives leads to unintentional property damage. Even if the act was not meant to cause harm, it can still be considered a crime.

Penalties for Third-Degree Arson in Missouri

  • Class A Misdemeanor
  • Punishable by up to one year in jail
  • Fines of up to $2,000
While this is the least serious arson charge, a conviction can still have lasting consequences on your criminal record and reputation. If you are facing third-degree arson charges, consulting with a Missouri criminal defense attorney is essential to minimize penalties or have the charges dismissed.

ARSON IN THE SECOND DEGREE

Arson in the second degree is a more severe charge that carries felony-level penalties. This charge is applied when someone:
  • Knowingly starts a fire or causes an explosion
  • Recklessly damages or destroys a building or inhabitable structure
  • Without knowing whether anyone was present or nearby
Unlike third-degree arson, second-degree arson is always charged as a felony. Missouri law recognizes that even if the perpetrator did not intend to harm someone, their reckless actions could have put lives at risk.

Penalties for Second-Degree Arson in Missouri

  • Class D Felony
  • Punishable by up to 7 years in prison
  • Fines of up to $10,000
However, the charge becomes even more serious if the fire or explosion causes injury or death. If someone is harmed as a result of the fire, the crime is elevated to a Class B Felony, which carries a prison sentence of 5 to 15 years.

Legal Defenses for Second-Degree Arson

Under Missouri Revised Statutes Section 569.050 (2), a person does not commit second-degree arson if:
  • They were the sole owner of the building or structure
  • If there were multiple owners, all of them gave permission to start the fire
  • The fire was started for a lawful purpose
These defenses can be crucial in court, and an experienced Missouri criminal defense attorney can help build a case to reduce or dismiss your charges.

ARSON IN THE FIRST DEGREE

Arson in the first degree is the most serious arson charge in Missouri. A person commits first-degree arson when they
1. Intentionally start a fire or cause an explosion
2. Damage a building or inhabitable structure
3. Know that a person is present or nearby
4. Recklessly place someone in danger of death or serious injury
Additionally, Missouri law also classifies arson committed during the manufacture of illegal substances—such as methamphetamine—as first-degree arson.

Penalties for First-Degree Arson in Missouri

Class B Felony: If no one was injured but the perpetrator knew someone was nearby, punishable by 5 to 15 years in prison
Class A Felony: If the fire resulted in serious physical injury or death , or was started to manufacture illegal substances, punishable by 10 to 30 years or life in prison
Due to the harsh penalties, first-degree arson charges require an aggressive legal defense. If you or a loved one is facing this charge, you need an experienced criminal defense lawyer who understands Missouri’s arson laws.

HOW DOES MISSOURI LAW DISTINGUISH ARSON FROM OTHER FIRE-RELATED CRIMES?

Missouri law differentiates arson from other fire-related offenses. While arson involves intentionally or recklessly setting a fire that damages a structure, “burning” is a separate offense.
Burning is typically a misdemeanor, but under some circumstances, it can be charged as a Class E Felony—which is punishable by up to 4 years in prison.
If you are unsure about what charges you are facing, contact a criminal defense attorney in Missouri immediately for legal guidance.

EXPERIENCED CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY FOR ARSON CHARGES IN KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI

Facing arson charges in Missouri is a serious matter that requires strong legal representation. A conviction can not only lead to prison time and fines but also damage your reputation, career, and personal life.
A Missouri arson defense lawyer can:
  • Review the evidence and find weaknesses in the prosecution’s case
  • Determine if procedural errors were made in the investigation
  • Use legal defenses to argue for reduced charges or dismissal
  • Negotiate with prosecutors to seek alternative penalties or plea deals
Even if you believe you are innocent, do not attempt to handle your case alone. Prosecutors will aggressively pursue an arson conviction, and without a skilled attorney, you could face years in prison.

HIRE AN EXPERIENCED KANSAS CITY ARSON DEFENSE LAWYER TODAY

Arson is one of the most severe criminal offenses in Missouri, and being charged with it can be life-altering. Whether you are accused of third-degree, second-degree, or first-degree arson, you need a strong legal defense.
If you or someone you know is facing arson charges in Kansas City, Missouri, contact an experienced and affordable Missouri criminal defense attorney immediately. A knowledgeable and affordable arson lawyer can protect your rights, build a strong defense, and work to achieve the best possible outcome in your case.
Your future is at stake. Call KC Defense Counsel today and speak to one of our Kansas City arson defense attorneys today about a free case evaluation.