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35-year-old Christian Vega has been arrested in connection with a small fire set ablaze right outside of the Metropolitan Police Department headquarters on Saturday, August 9th. According to authorities, the suspect was arrested one day after the fire when he was identified by the public as the culprit.
Things all started on Saturday when the alleged suspect was seen walking around the police headquarters at 400 South Martin L. King Boulevard. The individual was reportedly wearing a black and white T-shirt, black pants, and black shoes. He was walking along the west side of the property wall and setting random foliage on fire with an unknown incendiary device.
Thankfully, an employee saw the incident occurring and promptly alerted both the police and the Las Vegas Fire Department. Experienced firefighters promptly responded to the scene and extinguished the fire. No injuries or serious damage have been reported.
Detectives began investigating immediately upon being alerted to the situation, and they saw an individual, later identified as Christian Vega, walking along the south parking lot. Vega was seen jumping over a wall into a nearby apartment complex before disappearing.
In a press release, police provided photographs of the suspect to the public and asked for help in identifying him as the primary arson suspect. On Sunday, the authorities tracked down Vega, who is now facing two counts of third-degree arson and one count of malicious destruction of private property.
In Las Vegas, setting property on fire is an extremely serious crime. Third-degree arson, for instance, is considered a Category D felony. This type of crime is punishable by one to four years in prison, fines of up to $5,000, and court-ordered restitution payments. What’s more, a felony offense carries serious repercussions, including losing your rights to vote, carry a firearm, and hold public office.
Fourth-degree arson, the least severe type of arson crime in Nevada, is still a Category D felony. First-degree arson could result in up to 15 years behind bars.
Malicious destruction of private property, which can also be charged as vandalism or malicious mischief, is a crime that’s punishable based on the value of the damaged property. Minor crimes that result in less than $25 worth of damage typically only result in fines of up to $500. When the property damage goes up to $250, the crime can be levied as a misdemeanor, resulting in up to six months in jail. Vandalism can also be charged as a Category C felony when the property damage exceeds $5,000.
If you’ve recently been charged with any type of arson-related crime, then it’s in your best interest to consult with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Here at LV Criminal Defense, our team can help you unpack your charges, identify your options, and weigh out your potential defense strategies. Together, we’ll determine your best possible legal path forward.
Schedule your free consultation now by leaving your contact details on our online form or calling us directly at (702) 623-6362.
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