THE MICHIGAN PENAL CODE (EXCERPT) Act 328 of 1931
750.73 Second degree arson.
Sec. 73.
(1) Except as provided in section 72, a person who willfully or maliciously burns, damages, or destroys by fire or explosive a dwelling, regardless of whether it is occupied, unoccupied, or vacant at the time of the fire or explosion, or its contents, is guilty of second degree arson. (2) Subsection (1) applies regardless of whether the person owns the dwelling or its contents. (3) Second degree arson is a felony punishable by imprisonment for not more than 20 years or a fine of not more than $20,000.00 or 3 times the value of the property damaged or destroyed, whichever is greater, or both imprisonment and a fine.
Decoding Second Degree Arson: Simplifying Section 750.73 of the Michigan Penal Code
What is Second Degree Arson?
Second degree arson, defined by Section 750.73, happens when someone purposely and destructively sets fire to or damages a dwelling (a place where people live) or its contents, using fire or explosives. The law applies irrespective of whether the dwelling was occupied, unoccupied, or vacant at the time of the incident.
It's important to note that this law applies even if the person causing the fire or explosion owns the dwelling or its contents.
This is termed as 'second degree arson', distinct from 'first degree arson', which covers a broader range of properties and circumstances as detailed in Section 72.
What are the Consequences of Second Degree Arson?
Second degree arson is a serious crime, classified as a felony. If you're found guilty of this crime, the law has quite hefty punishments in store:
- You could be imprisoned for up to 20 years.
- You could be fined up to $20,000, or three times the value of the property you damaged or destroyed - whichever is greater.
- In some cases, you could face both the imprisonment and the fine.
Why is Understanding Second Degree Arson Important?
Knowing about second degree arson helps underscore the gravity of arson crimes. It highlights how intentionally causing destruction with fire or explosives, even to your own property, can lead to serious legal repercussions. Such understanding enhances our responsibility towards safe and respectful use of property, fire, and explosives, and promotes a safer society.