MARTIN C ROBBINS

This law makes it a Class A felony (15-60 years in prison and/or up to $50,000 fine) to commit arson when one or more people are inside the building at the time or when anyone—including firefighters or police—suffers serious bodily injury from the fire or explosion. This is the most serious arson charge.

Penalty: Class A felony; 15-60 years; fine up to $50,000

It is illegal to commit any act of terrorism in Tennessee, meaning any act intended to intimidate civilians or coerce the government through violence or threats. This is a Class A felony punishable by 15-60 years in prison and/or a fine up to $50,000; however, if the terrorist act results in someone's death, the person must be prosecuted for first-degree murder instead.

Penalty: Class A felony; 15-60 years; fine up to $50,000

Reckless endangerment is when someone acts recklessly in a way that puts another person in immediate danger of death or serious injury. This happens when a person is aware of a serious risk but ignores it anyway—for example, firing a gun into a crowd or driving dangerously fast through a populated area. A basic conviction is a Class A misdemeanor punishable by up to 11 months and 29 days in jail and/or a fine up to $2,500. The offense is enhanced to a Class E, D, or C felony (1-15 years in prison) if the reckless conduct involves using a deadly weapon or firearm.

Penalty: Class A misdemeanor; 11 months 29 days; fine up to $2,500