A Utah man was arrested yesterday after admitting to starting several fires in the Millcreek area since April. The first fire occurred in a shed, followed by a vehicle fire in the same location two days later. On June 4, there was a home fire at the same place as the first two fires. The man is facing arson charges, but law enforcement has been unable to determine what the motivation was behind the fires.

Photo: Jason Bolonski

In the state of Utah, the charges for arson, not including aggravated arson, can range anywhere from a class B misdemeanor to a second degree felony, depending on the damage done to property or people.

There are different types of fire-setters, as not all people who commit arson do so for the same reasons.

One type is the troubled fire-setter. This individual often has a history of fire-setting, poor coping skills and doesn’t show remorse for his or her actions.

Another profile is the delinquent fire-setter. This person usually has trouble with authority, academic or behavior problems and lies about setting any fires.

There is also the strategic fire-setter. This person is often a teen who has a delinquent behavior problem, plans his fires well, may work with friends and often sets “revenge” fires.

Then there is the pathological fire-setter. There are only a few who fit this particular profile. These people may have high IQs and may have suffered physical or emotional abuse and medical or neurological problems.

It’s important for people who have been arrested and charged with arson to get legal help without delay. Find a Utah criminal defense attorney who will listen to your case and provide you with all the legal assistance you, a friend or loved one require. As noted above, there can be many reasons why a person sets fires, and those individuals need as much support, legally and otherwise, that they can get. Call an experienced Utah criminal defense attorney today.