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 Iowa, arson is defined as the intentional burning of property with criminal or fraudulent intent, such as for insurance fraud. It is considered a felony offense under Iowa law. The severity of the charge can vary based on several factors, including whether the fire caused physical injury or death, the value of the property damaged, and whether the property was occupied at the time of the offense. Iowa Code categorizes arson into different degrees, with first-degree arson being the most serious, typically involving cases where the property is occupied or someone is injured. Federal law also addresses arson, criminalizing the use of fire or explosives to damage or destroy property used in interstate or foreign commerce, or any property associated with activities that affect interstate or foreign commerce. The specific charges and penalties for arson can be complex and depend on the details of the crime, and an attorney can provide more detailed information based on the circumstances of a case.