Suburban Law Enforcement Academy (SLEA) BA State Certification Practice Exam

What class felony is aggravated arson?

1. Class 1

2. Class 2

3. Class X

4. Class 3

The correct answer is: Class X

Aggravated arson is classified as a Class X felony due to the severe nature of the crime, which involves intentionally setting fire to a property with the potential to cause great bodily harm or death to individuals. Class X felonies are reserved for the most serious crimes, often involving a high degree of culpability or the potential for significant harm to persons or property. The classification reflects the gravity of placing lives at risk and the potential for widespread damage that arson can create. In many jurisdictions, aggravated arson includes specific aggravating factors such as the involvement of occupied structures or the intent to harm people. As a result, the penalties associated with a Class X felony are typically more severe than those for lower classes of felonies, including longer prison sentences and higher fines, underscoring the legal system's commitment to addressing crimes that pose serious threats to public safety.