Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department (LASD) RADIO Practice Exam

What term describes the unlawful setting of fire to property?

1. Arson

2. Burglary

3. Vandalism

4. Looting

The correct answer is: Arson

The term that describes the unlawful setting of fire to property is arson. This crime involves deliberately and maliciously destroying property through fire or explosion. The act of arson not only poses a significant risk to property but also jeopardizes the safety of individuals in the vicinity. Laws regarding arson are strict due to the severe potential consequences, including injury or loss of life, as well as extensive property damage. Burglary refers to unlawfully entering a structure with the intent to commit a crime, typically theft. Vandalism involves the intentional destruction or defacement of property, but it does not specifically include setting fires. Looting generally refers to the theft of goods during a chaotic event, often followers of a disaster, but it does not pertain to the act of setting fires to property. Therefore, the most accurate term for the unlawful setting of fire to property is indeed arson.