Indiana § 35-43-1-1 - Arson

Full text of Indiana Indiana Code § 35-43-1-1 — Arson, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 35-43-1-1. Arson

Sec. 1. (a) A person who, by means of fire, explosive, or destructive device, knowingly or intentionally damages:

(1) a dwelling of another person without the other person's consent;

(2) property of any person under circumstances that endanger human life;

(3) property of another person without the other person's consent if the pecuniary loss is at least five thousand dollars ($5,000); or

(4) a structure used for religious worship without the consent of the owner of the structure;

commits arson, a Level 4 felony. However, the offense is a Level 3 felony if it results in bodily injury to any person other than a defendant and a Level 2 felony if it results in serious bodily injury to any person other than a defendant.

(b) A person who commits arson for hire commits a Level 4 felony. However, the offense is:

(1) a Level 3 felony if it results in bodily injury to any other person; and

(2) a Level 2 felony if it results in serious bodily injury to any other person.

(c) A person who, by means of fire, explosive, or destructive device, knowingly or intentionally damages property of any person with intent to defraud commits arson, a Level 6 felony.

(d) A person who, by means of fire, explosive, or destructive device, knowingly or intentionally damages property of another person without the other person's consent so that the resulting pecuniary loss is at least two hundred fifty dollars ($250) but less than five thousand dollars ($5,000) commits arson, a Level 6 felony.

(e) A person who commits an offense under subsection (a), (b), (c), or (d) commits a separate offense for each person who suffers a bodily injury or serious bodily injury that is caused by the violation of subsection (a), (b), (c), or (d).

As added by Acts 1976, P.L.148, SEC.3. Amended by Acts 1977, P.L.340, SEC.40; Acts 1980, P.L.159, SEC.4; Acts 1981, P.L.302, SEC.1; Acts 1982, P.L.204, SEC.35; P.L.88-1999, SEC.1; P.L.123-2002, SEC.36; P.L.158-2013, SEC.452; P.L.168-2014, SEC.75.

Frequently Asked Questions About Indiana § 35-43-1-1

What does Indiana Code § 35-43-1-1 cover?

Section 35-43-1-1 ("Arson") is part of the Indiana Code, the codified statutory law of Indiana. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Indiana § 35-43-1-1?

A common citation format is "Indiana Code § 35-43-1-1" (Indiana). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Indiana law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Indiana official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Indiana attorney.

How does Indiana § 35-43-1-1 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Indiana can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Indiana.