Conn. Gen. Stat. 53a‑111 – Arson in the First Degree

Connecticut General Statutes 53a‑111 explained for non lawyers

1. What the law prohibits

A person commits first-degree arson if they intentionally start a fire or explosion to destroy or damage a building (as defined by § 53a‑100), and any one of the following is true:

1. The building is inhabited or occupied, or the person believes it might be;
2. Someone is injured, directly or indirectly;
3. The fire or explosion was set to collect insurance money;
4. A police officer or firefighter at the scene was placed at substantial risk of injury.

2. What the penalties are if someone is convicted

• This is a Class A felony—among the most serious crimes short of capital offenses.
• Punishable by:
  • Up to 25 years in prison,
  • Up to $20,000 in fines

3. What the state has to prove to convict someone (Elements of the offense)

Prosecutors must prove, beyond a reasonable doubt:

1. Intent: The defendant intentionally started a fire or explosion, with the goal of destroying or damaging a building.
2. The target was a building (per § 53a‑100 definitions).
3. One of these conditions applied:
   • The building was inhabited or thought to be by the defendant;
   • Someone was injured by the fire/explosion;
   • The fire was set for insurance gain;
   • A firefighter or police officer faced substantial risk at the scene.

For the actual statute, you can visit Justia which has the actual law on its website.

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