Arson And Negligent Arson $500 To $25000
Legal Definition
A person commits arson when they willfully or maliciously damage or destroy by fire or explosion any property of another, or their own property with intent to defraud or prejudice an insurer. Negligent arson occurs when a person recklessly starts a fire or causes an explosion that damages property. The offense level depends on the value of the property damaged; this code covers damage valued between $500 and $25,000.
Possible Punishment
Basic sentence of 18 months imprisonment; fine up to $5,000. A mandatory period of parole follows release. Restitution to the property owner or insurer is typically ordered.
Local Context
Arson is classified by the value of property damaged: under $500 is a misdemeanor; $500 to $25,000 is a fourth degree felony; over $25,000 is a third degree felony. If the arson causes bodily injury or is committed on an occupied structure, separate and more severe charges under § 30-17-6 (aggravated arson) may apply.
Property-Crime Cases in Doña Ana County
Property charges in New Mexico scale with dollar value and circumstances. The same shoplifting conduct can be a petty misdemeanor or a felony depending on the value of what was taken, and burglary escalates sharply when the structure is a home or someone is inside. That is why our charge database lists several versions of larceny and burglary with different classifications.
Property cases also drive a large share of repeat bookings: failure to appear on an older larceny case frequently brings someone back into the detention center on a bench warrant alongside any new charge.
Related Guides
Misdemeanor vs. Felony in New Mexico: Sentences, Courts, and Consequences
How New Mexico separates petty misdemeanors, misdemeanors, and felony degrees: sentence ranges, jail vs. prison, habitual enhancements, and collateral costs.
Bench Warrants and Failure to Appear in New Mexico: How a Missed Court Date Becomes a Booking
What a bench warrant is, how it differs from an arrest warrant, why FTA bookings fill the Doña Ana County jail log, and how to clear a warrant before arrest.
Recent Arrests for This Charge (1)
Information provided for general reference. Statutory text is summarized and may not reflect the most recent amendments. All persons listed are presumed innocent until proven guilty.