Washington criminal charge
Tampering with fire alarm or firefighting equipment in Washington
Tampering with fire alarm or firefighting equipment is a Class B Felony under Washington criminal law, defined by RCW 9.40.105. As a Class B Felony, it is punishable within the statutory sentencing range Washington sets for that offense class. Washington sorts criminal offenses into class A, B, and C felonies, gross misdemeanors, and misdemeanors — a gross misdemeanor is a distinct, more serious rung than a misdemeanor — with maximum penalties set by RCW 9A.20.021.
Defined by RCW 9.40.105.
What is the penalty for tampering with fire alarm or firefighting equipment in Washington?
| Penalty | Range | Basis | Authority |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jail / prison | up to 10 years (statutory maximum (RCW 9A.20.021(1)(b)); the sentence actually imposed is set by the Sentencing Reform Act standard range (RCW 9.94A.510) from the offense's seriousness level and the defendant's offender score) | discretionary | RCW 9A.20.021 |
| Fine | up to $20,000 (statutory maximum, adult offenders (RCW 9A.20.021(5)); unless a different maximum is specifically established by statute) | discretionary | RCW 9A.20.021 |
Applies to crimes committed on or after July 1, 1984.
Common questions about tampering with fire alarm or firefighting equipment in Washington
Is tampering with fire alarm or firefighting equipment a felony or a misdemeanor in Washington?
What are the penalties for tampering with fire alarm or firefighting equipment in Washington?
As a Class B Felony, tampering with fire alarm or firefighting equipment carries up to 10 years (no mandatory minimum) of incarceration and a fine of up to $20,000 (no mandatory minimum) under RCW 9A.20.021 (crimes committed on or after July 1, 1984).
Which Washington statute covers tampering with fire alarm or firefighting equipment?
Tampering with fire alarm or firefighting equipment is governed by RCW 9.40.105 (Tampering with fire alarm or firefighting equipment—Intent to commit arson—Penalty).
Legal terms used in this law
This reference is informational and is not legal advice. Penalty ranges are the statutory classification ranges; sentencing in a specific case depends on its facts and history.