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setting fire in Federal courtroomA Las Vegas man was charged with setting fire to a courthouse in Las Vegas, the Las Vegas Review Journal reported last week. According to the news report, the 32-year-old man faces a count of arson and a count of malicious damage to federal property in connection with an incident on November 7th. If convicted, the man faces between 5  and 20 years in federal prison.  KTNV reported that the suspect had reportedly been turned away from purchasing a gun before the incident.

He remained in federal custody following his initial court appearance. A preliminary hearing of evidence was scheduled for January 4, 2021. 

Potential Penalties For Arson Convictions

By definition, arson is willfully setting fire to a property. In Nevada, it is a crime against property, and  the penalty for an arson crime will depend on the “degree” of the arson offense. All degrees of arson are felonies.

First Degree Arson (Category B Felony) – NRS 205.010

  • 2 to 15 years in state prison and fines up to $15,000

Second Degree Arson (Category B Felony) – NRS 205.015

  • 1 to 10 years in state prison and fines up to $10,000

Third Degree Arson (Category D Felony) – NRS 205.020

  • 1 to 4 years in state prison and fines up to $5,000

Fourth Degree Arson (Category D Felony) –  NRS 205.025; NRS 205.055

  • 1 to 4 years in state prison and fines up to $5,000.

At the federal level (18 U.S.C. § 844(i)), the penalties for arson are potentially even more serious. The law states that a person found guilty of federal arson may be sentenced to a maximum of 20 years in jail, with a minimum of 5 years. Whether charges are at a state or federal lawyer, arson is a serious crime with harsh penalties.

A conviction of arson can impact your future, present challenges with getting housing, limit employment opportunities, and hurt relationships and freedoms. If your future is at stake, you need effective representation, and a lawyer who has successfully represented people charged with arson. Do not delay speaking to a lawyer about your case.

Why Choose LV Criminal Attorneys For Your Las Vegas Criminal Defense Case

At LV Criminal Defense, our top-rated Las Vegas criminal  defense attorneys have worked on notorious and notable criminal cases, including the Boston marathon bombing case. We understand how prosecutors handle these cases, and we know how to closely review a case and identify strengths and weaknesses. If we represent you, we will aggressively fight to get you the best possible outcome. Contact us today to arrange a free phone or video consultation with a Las Vegas arson defense lawyer.

If you are facing arson charges in Nevada for state or federal charges , call LV Criminal Defense Law Firm at 702-623-6362. An experienced and knowledgeable lawyer can help you protect your legal rights and strategize a plan to fight charges, or get them dismissed or reduced.