Mississippi § 97-17-9 - Arson; fourth degree; attempt to burn.
Full text of Mississippi Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 97-17-9 — Arson; fourth degree; attempt to burn., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 97-17-9. Arson; fourth degree; attempt to burn.
Any person who wilfully and maliciously attempts to set fire to or attempts to burn or to aid, counsel or procure the burning of any of the buildings or property mentioned in the foregoing sections, or who commits any act preliminary thereto, or in furtherance thereof, shall be guilty of arson in the fourth degree and upon conviction thereof be sentenced to the penitentiary for not less than one nor more than two years or fined not to exceed one thousand dollars. The placing or distributing of any flammable, explosive or combustible material or substance, or any device in any building or property mentioned in the foregoing sections in an arrangement or preparation with intent to eventually, wilfully and maliciously set fire to or burn same, or to procure the setting fire to or burning of same shall, for the purposes of this section constitute an attempt to burn such building or property.
Source: official Mississippi text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Mississippi § 97-17-9
What does Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 97-17-9 cover?
Section 97-17-9 ("Arson; fourth degree; attempt to burn.") is part of the Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated, the codified statutory law of Mississippi. 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 Mississippi § 97-17-9?
A common citation format is "Mississippi Code of 1972 Annotated § 97-17-9" (Mississippi). 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 Mississippi law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Mississippi official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Mississippi attorney.
How does Mississippi § 97-17-9 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Mississippi 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 Mississippi.