Arson is the intentional burning of property—such as a building, car, boat, crops, or trees—with criminal or fraudulent intent. The criminal intent or motive behind arson is often insurance fraud—such as when the owner of property intentionally burns it and then files an insurance claim without disclosing the owner intentionally started the fire.

Arson is a felony offense under most state laws, but there are often different degrees of severity, depending on factors such as whether the fire results in physical injury or death. Arson is also a crime under federal law, which makes it illegal to use fire or an explosive to damage or destroy property used in interstate or foreign commerce, or in any activity affecting interstate or foreign commerce.

In Connecticut, arson is considered a serious felony offense. The state statutes categorize arson based on the degree of severity, with the most severe being Arson in the First Degree, which involves intentionally causing a fire or explosion that poses a danger to human life, is intended to destroy or damage a building or structure, or is for the purpose of collecting insurance for such damages. Lesser degrees of arson may involve burning without the intent to endanger life or burning with reckless disregard for safety. The specific circumstances, such as whether the fire resulted in injury, death, or was committed for insurance fraud, can influence the severity of the charges and penalties. Additionally, under federal law, it is a crime to use fire or explosives to damage or destroy property used in interstate or foreign commerce, or to affect any activity involving interstate or foreign commerce. Penalties for arson under federal law can be severe, especially when the offense results in injury or death, or involves federal property.