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 Tennessee, arson is considered a serious felony offense. The state categorizes arson crimes based on the intent, the type of property involved, and the consequences of the act. Under Tennessee law, arson is defined as the intentional setting of fire to property, including buildings, vehicles, and other personal property, with the purpose of causing damage or destruction. The severity of the charge can escalate if the arson results in bodily injury or death, or if it involves a place of worship or a building where people are present. Additionally, Tennessee recognizes aggravated arson as a more severe offense, which occurs when someone is inside the property at the time of the fire or if the arsonist has the intent to commit a felony. Insurance fraud related to arson is also a criminal offense, where property owners intentionally burn their property to file a false insurance claim. On the federal level, arson is illegal when it involves property used in interstate or foreign commerce, or affects such commerce, and is prosecuted under federal statutes. Penalties for arson in Tennessee can include imprisonment, fines, and restitution, with the exact punishment depending on the specifics of the crime and the degree of arson charged.