While penalties for Causing or Risking Widespread Injury or Damage are significant, the statute creates penalties even for recklessly creating a risk of widespread injury or damage, even if no injury or damage actually occurs.
Circumstances under which you could be charged under 2C:17-2(c) would include even some fairly innocuous behaviors, like spilling or abandoning flammable materials in a place where they could reasonably ignite, or leaving an un-ignited gas stove on in an apartment building.
Even if no harm comes from the act, recklessly creating a risk of fire or explosion is adequate to draw criminal charges.
Penalties under 2C:17-2(c) are serious, allowing for a prison sentence of up to 18 months and fines of up to $10,000.
The charge is an indictable offense, comparable to a felony in other states, so you’ll have a criminal record if convicted and will have disclose it on job and housing applications.
As with every criminal charge, there are defenses, and an experienced criminal defense attorney can make a big difference in your case.
If you’ve been charged with Fourth Degree Causing or Risking Widespread Injury or Damage, call MatthewReisig today at 732-625-9661 for a free consultation with an experienced New Jersey criminal defense lawyer.