Arson May Be to Blame for California Fires

Exactly a year ago, California was engulfed by one of the deadliest and most destructive fire seasons in history. This week, wildfires are once again ravaging California. Southern California has seen the development of three major blazes in a very short period coinciding with the arrival of the Santa Ana winds. So far, two people have been killed and more than 10,000 acres have been burned in an area from San Diego to Los Angeles. The high winds earlier in the week fanned flames that were possibly intentionally started by an arsonist. 

 

Arson is explained in California Penal Code section 451 as willfully and maliciously setting fire to, burning or causing any structure, forest land, or property to be burned. Furthermore, a person who aids, counsels, or procures the burning of, any structure, forest land, or property may also be found guilty of arson. Arson that causes great bodily injury is a felony punishable by up to nine years in state prison. Arson that causes an inhabited structure or inhabited property to burn is a felony punishable by imprisonment for up to eight years.

Arson, by its very nature of setting in motion a series of uncontrolled and uncoordinated events, carries criminal enhancements to an underlying criminal charge depending on the severity of damage the resulting fire creates. Furthermore, setting a fire in motion that results in the death or injury to firefighters or innocent victims can carry even more severe penalties than simply intentionally starting a fire.

The authorities have virtually unlimited resources to enlist in order to thoroughly investigate arson related crimes. If you are being investigated or have been arrested for allegations of arson in Orange County, you need the assistance of competent defense attorneys working to ensure your rights are protected and that you receive your constitutional due process. The criminal defense lawyers at Houston & Blanco can assist with your arson allegations and handle any other criminal accusations against you. Call TODAY! Do NOT WAIT! Call the Orange County criminal defense attorneys of Houston & Blanco at 714.841.3921 or email at info@HBLawyers.net .