Presque Isle, ME asked in Criminal Law and Federal Crimes for Maine

Q: If a 17 year old boy commited simple arson but it was his first offence of arson how may years in jail will he get

He's 17 he's had probations and has gotten into trouble before but never with arson

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1 Lawyer Answer
Hunter J Tzovarras
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Answered
  • Criminal Law Lawyer
  • Bangor, ME
  • Licensed in Maine

A: If he is charged as a juvenile, the maximum penalty could be a commitment to the juvenile jail until the age of 21. It does not mean he would receive this but that would be the maximum. If the State is able to bind him over and charge him as an adult, the maximum penalty for arson is 30 years in prison. Several factors would effect what sentence is imposed, including any prior history, the severity of the arson, and the strength of the State's case against him.

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