There are a few ways to start a fire: light a match, flick on a lighter, or even go the old-fashioned way, and rub two sticks together. But, one Utah woman used an unusual item to start a fire in her ex-boyfriend’s house: burning bacon. Arson charges can be serious – let’s look at this intriguing story to learn more about Arson and Domestic Violence charges in Morgan, Logan, and Weld County.
Burning Bacon Used to Set Fire
According to the news, the story of the burning bacon fire starter began like it does in many situations in Greeley, Evans, and Johnstown: a broken relationship. Apparently, the Utah woman got a little drunk and began calling and texting her ex-boyfriend repeatedly. These acts could be charged as Harassment or even Stalking. She was staying at his house, and her ex didn’t want her in his home anymore. So, he called the police. When the first officer arrived at the home, he saw smoke billowing out the front door. He also saw the ex-girlfriend, who was obviously drunk. When the officer investigated the fire, he discovered a pound of bacon on a cookie sheet on the wood stove – burning to a crisp. There were also coals scattered across the kitchen floor. The woman was taken to the hospital to be checked out and a doctor asked her why she set the fire. She told him she “wanted to get back at her ex-boyfriend” by starting a fire in his house. Busted. Later on, we’ll discuss why it’s important not to talk to the police if you’ve been involved in a crime. As you can see with this woman, it doesn’t end well when you offer information freely.
Busted.
Arson Charges Vary, Depending on the Circumstances
There are three different types of Arson – First Degree Arson – C.R.S. 18-4-102, Second Degree Arson – C.R.S. 18-4-103, and Third Degree Arson – C.R.S. 18-4-104. The type of Arson which is charged depends on where the fire was set. In the case of the bacon burning arsonist, she would most likely be charged with First Degree Arson. That’s because she set fire to an “occupied structure of another without his consent.” If she set fire to a building that wasn’t an occupied structure (not a home), she would face charges of a less severe form of Arson.
She set fire to a home, which is more serious.
How Arson and Domestic Violence are Connected
If the woman used burning bacon to set a fire to her ex-boyfriend’s house here in Colorado, the sentence-enhancer of Domestic Violence would be added. Domestic Violence isn’t a crime in and of itself. It is added to any offense which is committed between two people who are (or have been) in an “intimate relationship.” Because the woman committed arson against a person she had a previous relationship with, the label of DV would be added. A DV conviction requires mandatory treatment overseen by the Domestic Violence Offender Management Board (DVOMB). This treatment is one-size-fits-all. And, it must be paid for by the defendant.
In Colorado, Domestic Violence would be added.
Why You Need a Lawyer for Arson Charges
Now, the woman using the burning bacon to set fire to her ex-boyfriend’s house did a few things wrong. Obviously, getting revenge on an ex by committing Arson isn’t a good idea, but by admitting she started the fire, there is much less of a chance her case can get dismissed. This is why it is important to exercise your right to remain silent if you have been involved in a crime. Your words can be misconstrued. The police are looking for evidence against you and often twist words and meanings into confessions. Instead of talking to the police, contact an outstanding criminal defense lawyer. We offer a free consultation so you can learn more about what you’ve been charged with, and what the best defense is in your case.
If you or a loved one receives a ticket or a summons for Arson, be smart and exercise your right to remain silent. Then, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney at the O’Malley Law Office for a free consultation at 970-616-6009. Together, we can protect your future.
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