A few days ago, this was all over the news in Indiaanpolis. Local man decides to steal his girlfriend’s car. He then drives that vehicle into a utility pole. He then enters into her house and lights it on fire. Then he proceeds to dance on top of the roof while the house is on fire. The full story is available here.
Now that the media sensation has died down a bit, what kind of trouble is this young man in? It turns out quite a bit. He is facing three separate level 4 felonies with a maximum time in jail of 36 years. He is also facing three separate level 6 felonies with a maximum time in jail of 7 and 1/2 years. He also faces a handful of misdemeanor offenses with a maximum time in jail of three (3) years. His total worse case scenario exposure is 46 and 1/2 years in jail.
However, just from the charging information it seems that some of these would have to be dismissed in the event he goes to trial or pleads guilty, as some of the charges are lesser included charges of more serious offenses – for example the criminal mischief for setting the house on fire would likely be absorbed by the felony arson charge. The arson charges are the most serious of these charges.
If this man is found guilty or he pleads guilty the judge must take into account certain mitigators, including mental health issues. As the man was seen smiling as he was taken away on a stretcher, it is safe to assume his attorney will be looking at various defenses to these actions, including insanity.
If you or a loved one are facing a situation you never thought you would be in and need some legal guidance, please call the Attorneys at the Marc Lopez Law Firm. Our number is 317.632.3642. Or reach out to us by email.