Penalties for Incendiary Devices in Fort Lauderdale

Incendiary weapons are a very old technology.  Historians believe that sulfur-based explosives were first used by the Assyrians almost 3,000 years ago. Although this represented groundbreaking technology at the time, anyone can theoretically make their own incendiary devices in the modern era. From simple Molotov cocktails to aerosol flamethrowers, the average Florida resident has access to all the necessary ingredients at a local 7-11. But just because you can make an incendiary device, this doesn’t mean that you should. In fact, creating, possessing, and using an incendiary device is one of the most serious weapons offenses in Fort Lauderdale.

You Can Face Life in Prison for Using an Incendiary Device 

Even the least serious offenses involving incendiary devices are felonies in Florida. “Simple possession” of an incendiary device could lead to a 5-year prison sentence – even if you showed no intent to use the weapon. If there is evidence to suggest you intended to use the device, you could face up to 15 years in prison – even if you only planned to destroy property without causing injuries.

If you actually discharge the device, the penalties become much worse. As long as you damage private property to some degree, you could face up to 30 years in prison. You will also face this penalty if you cause injuries. If someone dies as a result of your incendiary device, you will face either life imprisonment (without parole) or the death sentence.

Penalties can become even more severe if you target specific people. In March of 2024, a man in Fort Lauderdale was arrested after setting fire to a rabbi’s car outside a Jewish Center. He was quickly taken into custody after the incident and charged with various arson-related offenses. He was also in possession of cocaine at the time, and he may eventually face hate crime charges due to the nature of this incident. It is not clear whether the suspect used an incendiary device to set fire to the vehicle, but this is certainly a possibility.

What Counts as an Incendiary Device in Florida? 

Various weapons are specifically designated as “incendiary devices” or “destructive devices” under Florida law. These include:

• Bombs
• Grenades
• Mines
• Rockets
• Missiles
• Pipe bombs
• Poison gas devices

Prosecutors may also press charges if you possess “kits,” or separate components, that can be assembled to create an incendiary or destructive device.

Find a Qualified, Experienced Weapons Offense Lawyer in Fort Lauderdale 

If you’ve been searching for a qualified weapons offense lawyer in Fort Lauderdale, look no further than Haber Blank. Over the years, we have defended numerous Fort Lauderdale residents accused of weapons offenses. We know how serious these charges can be, and we can help you utilize effective defense strategies. To discuss your charges in more detail, be sure to book a consultation at your earliest convenience.

Sources: 

leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&Search_String=&URL=0500-0599/0590/Sections/0590.29.html

local10.com/news/local/2024/03/17/man-arrested-for-arson-after-setting-car-on-fire-outside-fort-lauderdale-chabad/