Arson in Bay County, Florida

In Bay County, arson cases result in conviction at notably high rates compared to statewide patterns. Of 17 cases, 47.1 percent ended in guilty verdicts, while zero cases were dismissed—a stark contrast to the statewide dismissal rate of 2.3 percent. The county recorded no withheld adjudications or diversions, outcomes that occur statewide in roughly 10 percent and 1.8 percent of arson cases respectively. This data suggests Bay County prosecutors pursue arson charges aggressively and successfully, with cases reaching guilty pleas or trial verdicts rather than alternative resolutions.

Sentencing in Bay County reflects the severity with which arson is treated. The median sentence stretches to 1,826 days—nearly five years—with probation averaging 1,583 days. About 23.5 percent of defendants received prison time, while 5.9 percent served jail sentences. The average fine was $627.50. Only 11.8 percent of defendants were represented by public defenders, suggesting most cases involved private counsel or differing economic circumstances among those charged.

0.0% of Arson cases in Bay County are dismissed. An attorney can review your situation — free, no obligation.

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17
Total Cases
47.1%
Guilty Rate
0.0%
Withheld Rate
0.0%
Dismissal Rate
4.4 years
Avg Sentence

Outcome Breakdown

Guilty
47.1% (8)
Withheld
0.0% (0)
Diversion
0.0% (0)
Dismissed
0.0% (0)
Acquitted
0.0% (0)

Sentencing Breakdown

4.4 years
Avg Sentence
5.0 years
Median Sentence
4.3 years
Avg Probation
$628
Avg Fine
23.5%
Prison Rate
5.9%
Jail Rate
Confinement Type Count Avg Sentence
State Prison Facility 4 5.3 years
County Jail 1 11.2 months

Demographics

Demographic data reflects systemic patterns in the criminal justice system and should not be used to draw conclusions about any racial or ethnic group. Disparities may reflect differences in policing, prosecution, and socioeconomic factors rather than actual crime rates.

Race Cases Guilty Rate Dismissal Rate
White 13 30.8% 0.0%

Age Distribution

5.9%
Under 21
58.8%
21-29
17.6%
30-39
0.0%
40-49
11.8%
50-59
5.9%
60+

Charge Level Breakdown

Level Degree Cases
Felony First Degree 9
Felony Second Degree 8

Related Charges in Bay County

Charge Cases Guilty Rate Dismissal Rate
Drug Possession 10,278 68.5% 1.3%
Traffic Offense 7,784 49.0% 0.6%
Other 4,574 38.9% 1.6%
Larceny / Theft 3,746 63.0% 1.7%
Battery 3,286 64.0% 2.9%
DUI 2,034 97.3% 1.3%
Resisting Officer 2,002 70.1% 1.9%
Fraud 1,750 53.4% 1.5%

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the guilty rate for Arson in Bay County?
The guilty rate is 47.1% based on 17 cases (2023-2025).
How often is adjudication withheld for Arson in Bay County?
Adjudication is withheld in 0.0% of cases. This is a Florida-specific outcome where the court finds guilt but does not formally convict, allowing the defendant to avoid a conviction record under FL Statute 948.01.
What is the average sentence for Arson in Bay County?
The average sentence is 4.4 years, with an average fine of $628.
What percentage use a public defender vs private attorney?
11.8% of defendants use a public defender, while 0.0% retain private counsel.

About this data: Statistics are derived from FDLE Criminal Justice Data Transparency records for Bay County. "Guilty" includes all cases where the defendant was found guilty. "Adjudication withheld" is a Florida-specific disposition where guilt is found but the court withholds formal adjudication under FL Statute 948.01. "Dismissed" includes all cases dismissed by the court or prosecution.

Source: FDLE Criminal Justice Data Transparency · 17 cases · 2023-2025 · Data last updated March 2026