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Attorney Brad Thornton is a highly experienced and Board-Certified criminal defense lawyer. With his background as a former Chief Prosecutor, he has a unique understanding of the criminal justice system and is able to provide comprehensive and effective representation to his clients. He is also deeply committed to ensuring that all individuals receive fair treatment in court, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Brad Thornton is dedicated to helping his clients achieve the best possible outcome for their case, whether it is in San Antonio or elsewhere in South Texas. He recognizes the stress and anxiety that can come with being accused of a crime, and approaches his clients with compassion while keeping them informed at every step of the process. His knowledge and experience make him a strong advocate for his clients.
Arson
Texas Penal Code § 28.02 - Arson
Arson Criminal Defense Attorney in San Antonio, Texas
Arson is a serious crime in Texas that is defined and punished under Texas Penal Code § 28.02. This statute states that a person commits arson if they intentionally or knowingly start a fire, whether on their own property or someone else's, with the intent to destroy or damage any building, habitation, or vehicle.
Texas Penal Code § 28.02(a)(2) lists several different ways in which a person can commit arson in Texas.
A person commits an offense if the person starts a fire, regardless of whether the fire continues after ignition, or causes an explosion with intent to destroy or damage:
(1) any vegetation, fence, or structure on open-space land; or
(2) any building, habitation, or vehicle:
(A) knowing that it is within the limits of an incorporated city or town;
(B) knowing that it is insured against damage or destruction;
(C) knowing that it is subject to a mortgage or other security interest;
(D) knowing that it is located on property belonging to another;
(E) knowing that it has located within it property belonging to another; or
(F) when the person is reckless about whether the burning or explosion will endanger the life of some individual or the safety of the property of another.
Difficulties in Arson Investigations
One difficulty that fire investigators often face is determining the cause of the fire. While most fires are accidental in nature, some are intentionally set. Determining whether a fire was intentionally set or not requires careful examination of the scene and the surrounding circumstances. Fire investigators may look for evidence of an accelerant, such as gasoline or other flammable liquid, that may have been used to start the fire. They may also look for evidence of tampering with the electrical system or other indicators that the fire was not accidental.
However, even if fire investigators are able to determine that the fire was intentionally set, they may still face challenges in identifying the person or persons responsible. Arsonists often take steps to cover their tracks and make it difficult to link them to the crime. This can make it difficult for investigators to gather enough evidence to charge someone with arson.
Once an arson case has been referred to a prosecutor, they may face additional challenges in securing a conviction. In order to secure a conviction, the prosecutor must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the defendant intentionally or knowingly set the fire with the intent to destroy or damage a building, habitation, or vehicle. This can be difficult to do, especially if the arsonist took steps to cover their tracks and there is limited physical evidence linking them to the crime.
Additionally, even if the prosecutor is able to present sufficient evidence to establish the defendant's guilt, the defendant may still be able to mount a successful defense by presenting evidence or testimony that suggests they did not have the required intent to commit the crime.
Overall, investigating and prosecuting arson cases can be challenging due to the difficulties in determining the cause of the fire, identifying the responsible party, and proving the required intent to commit the crime beyond a reasonable doubt.
Defenses to Arson in Texas
There are several potential defenses that a person charged with arson in Texas may raise to contest the charges against them. Some possible defenses include:
Lack of intent: To be convicted of arson in Texas, the prosecutor must prove that the defendant intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly set the fire with the intent to destroy or damage a building, habitation, or vehicle. If the defendant can show that they did not have this specific intent, they may be able to successfully defend against the charges.
Accident: If the defendant can show that the fire was started by accident, rather than being intentionally set, they may be able to avoid conviction for arson.
Alibi: If the defendant can provide evidence that they were not present at the time and place the fire was set, they may be able to establish an alibi and defend against the charges.
Mistaken identity: If the defendant can present evidence that they were not the person who set the fire, they may be able to contest the charges on the grounds of mistaken identity.
Insufficient evidence: If the prosecutor does not have sufficient evidence to establish the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt, the defendant may be able to challenge the charges and seek an acquittal.
It is important to note that the specific defenses available in an arson case will depend on the circumstances of the case and the evidence available to the defense. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help a defendant evaluate their options and determine the most effective defense strategy in their particular case.
Expert Witnesses for Arson in Texas
An arson investigator defense witness can be a valuable asset when defending against arson charges in Texas. These experts can provide valuable insight and testimony about the cause of a fire, the evidence collected, and the investigation process. They can also offer opinions about whether the fire was accidental or intentionally set.
Using an arson investigator defense witness can help to create reasonable doubt about the prosecution's case and undermine their allegations of arson. This can be particularly important if the prosecution's case relies heavily on circumstantial evidence or if the cause of the fire is not clear.
An arson investigator defense witness can also help to identify any weaknesses or flaws in the prosecution's case and highlight any inconsistencies in their evidence. They can provide valuable testimony about the limitations of fire investigation techniques and how they may have affected the evidence in the case.
Overall, using an arson investigator defense witness can be a powerful tool when defending against arson charges in Texas. These experts can provide valuable testimony and insights that can help to create reasonable doubt and ultimately achieve a favorable outcome in your case.
