Three Oregon residents have recently been indicted on serious felony charges. According to reports, the men were involved in a suspected arson that led to the death of a 37-year-old man. Police say that a detached garage was intentionally set on fire. Firefighters were able to remove the man from the garage, but he died later at a nearby hospital.
Following the fire -- which took place in February of 2013 -- an investigation led police officers to believe that it was a case of arson. Because of the suspicions nature of the fire, police have brought charges against three men. Police claim that the motive stemmed from the 37-year-old man's alleged involvement in a theft from one of the men that has been charged. The three men, who apparently know each other, have been charged with various felonies, including first degree arson, third degree assault and felony murder.
Unlike misdemeanors, felonies, like these, are very serious charges. They often result in life altering penalties, including time in prison, large fines, probation and more. Moreover, those individuals who are found guilty on felony charges often must disclose their status as felons on job applications, housing applications and other important documents. This can limit a person's ability to find stable housing and employment. Furthermore, convicted felons can lose their right to carry a firearm or to vote.
With such serious penalties, people need to make sure they know how to fight the charges. People accused of felonies usually have criminal defense options. Nonetheless, these options will depend on the specific details in each case and the specific charges that a person faces. Therefore, it is important that people understand the charges that have been brought against them. With this knowledge, and experienced help, people can craft a plan to combat the evidence against them.
Source: KOIN, "3 men face charges after deadly Portland fire," Brent Weisberg, July 9, 2014
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