2010 Tennessee Code
Title 39 - Criminal Offenses
Chapter 14 - Offenses Against Property
Part 3 - ArsonExplosives
39-14-301 - Arson.
39-14-301. Arson.
(a) A person commits an offense who knowingly damages any structure by means of a fire or explosion:
(1) Without the consent of all persons who have a possessory, proprietary or security interest therein; or
(2) With intent to destroy or damage any structure to collect insurance for the damage or destruction or for any unlawful purpose.
(b) (1) Arson is a Class C felony.
(2) (A) Arson of a place of worship is a Class B felony.
(B) As used in this subdivision (b)(2), “place of worship” means any structure that is:
(i) Approved, or qualified to be approved, by the state board of equalization for property tax exemption pursuant to § 67-5-212, based on ownership and use of the structure by a religious institution; and
(ii) Utilized on a regular basis by such religious institution as the site of congregational services, rites or activities communally undertaken for the purpose of worship.
[Acts 1989, ch. 591, § 1; 1991, ch. 19, § 1; 1997, ch. 284, § 1.]
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