Malicious Destruction

Willful and Malicious Destruction and Arson are crimes of property damage or destruction under Michigan criminal law.

Arson can carry some pretty hefty prison terms, up to 20 years depending on the circumstances of the offense. If you are charged with arson or criminal mischief, you should have an experienced attorney who can help you get through the legal process. Call us for a consultation on your case.

Willful and Malicious Destruction (MCL 750.377a)

If you willfully or maliciously destroy or injure the property of another you may be charged with this offense. The class of the crime and potential sentence depend on the property in question.

For “Burning of Personal Property”, “Willfully and Maliciously Setting Fire”, and “willfully and Malicious Destruction”:

If the value of the property was: Less than $200 (misdemeanor) Between $200 and $1,000 (misdemeanor) Between $1,000 and $20,000 (felony) More than $20,000 (felony)

Then you are facing a sentence of: Up to 93 days in jail and fines of up to $500 or 3 times the value of the property, whichever is greater Up to 1 year in prison and fines of up to $2,000 or 3 times the value of the property, whichever is greater Up to 5 years in prison and fines of $10,000 or 3 times the value of the property, whichever is greater UP to 10 years in prison and fines of $15,000 or 3 times the value of the property, whichever is greater

Second or subsequent offense charges of arson, burning, and malicious destruction will result in significantly harsher penalties. Please call us immediately to advise you on your defense for any 2nd or 3rd offense malicious destruction or related charges in Michigan.

Burning Dwelling / House (MCL 750.72)

If you maliciously burn a house, whether it is occupied or vacant, you could face this felony charge with a potential sentence of up 20 years in prison.

Burning any Real Property (MCL 750.73)

Anyone who burns any building, other than a home, can be charged and subsequently found guilty of this felony charge. The potential sentence for this offense is up to 10 years in prison. This statute also applies to someone burning their own property.

Burning of Personal Property (MCL 750.74)

The potential sentence you face when charged with this offense, depends largely on what property was burned. It only applies, however, to property not mention in the above statutes.

Willfully and Maliciously Setting Fire (MCL 750.77)

If you use, arrange, or place an inflammable, combustible, or explosive material or any device in or near property with intent to willfully and maliciously set fire to or burn the building or property or if you assist someone else in the commission of the crime you can be charged with this offense.

Burning Insured Property (MCL 750.75)

If you burn insured property (whether it belongs to you or someone else), with the intention of defrauding the insured or collecting on the insurance policy, you may be charged with this felony. This offense carries a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison.

Willfully or Negligently Setting Fire to Woods, Prairies or Grounds (MCL 750.78)

If you set fire to grounds that are not your own, you will be charged with a felony and face a sentence determined by the judge.

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If you are charged with and destruction of property crime in Michigan, including Willful and Malicious Destruction or Arson, please contact us immediately for a legal consultation. These are serious charges with serious penalties and consequences if you are found guilty.