Arson State Jail Felony applies to which scenario?

• A. 2nd Degree Felony
• B. Class A Misdemeanor
• C. 1st Degree Felony
• D. State Jail Felony

Answer: (D)

In Texas law, arson is penalized based on what property is damaged. The act of starting a fire or causing an explosion to destroy or damage property is always arson, but the punishment level rises if the target is a building or habitation because those scenarios pose a greater risk to people. When the arson involves property that isn’t a building or habitation (for example, a vehicle, fence, or other non-structural property) and the amount of damage falls within the state jail felony range, the offense is charged as a state jail felony. That’s why this scenario fits the state jail felony category: the arson targets property other than a building or habitation and the damage aligns with the state jail thresholds.