Arson (PC 451) vs Recklessly Causing a Fire (PC 452)

Facing arson in Los Angeles, Long Beach, Pasadena, Glendale, or Santa Ana—or reckless fire (PC 452) in Newport Beach, Huntington Beach, Dana Point, or Irvine? Modern fire science (NFPA) often tells a different story. We attack faulty “burn pattern” theories and push intent down to recklessness—or out of the case entirely. Call/Text 714-978-9988.

• PC 451 (intent) vs PC 452 (recklessness): quick side-by-side elements and penalties.
   
• How these cases are built: origin/cause experts, accelerant testing, insurance records, video—frequently misread.
   
• Defenses that work: alternate ignition sources, contamination, timeline gaps, suppression of overbroad searches.
  CTA: 714-978-9988 • PoseidonDefenseLaw.com 
• Not Legal Advice.

• Old “burn-pattern” myths are out. We lean on NFPA 921/1033 standards, test for accidental sources (electrical, appliance, batteries), challenge accelerant findings, and compare timeline evidence against scene reality.

• Q: What turns a reckless fire into arson?
  A: Proof of intent—planning, accelerants, threats, or admissions. Without that, the State must fall back to PC 452 or dismiss.
   
• Q: What if it was a campfire/BBQ that spread?
  A: That’s classic PC 452 territory; mitigation + restitution can be decisive.
   

Charged under PC 451/452 in Los Angeles, Glendale, Pasadena, Santa Monica, Long Beach, Irvine, Huntington Beach? Call/Text 714-978-9988 • PoseidonDefenseLaw.com
Disclaimer: Informational only, not legal advice.