Branntilløp

Branntilløb is a term used in Danish criminal law to describe the act of attempting to start a fire, i.e., an arson attempt. It covers situations where there is a clear intent to cause a fire and steps toward its execution, but the fire does not ignite. In legal terms, branntilløb requires both intent to commit arson and an overt act that moves from planning toward completion; mere preparation, such as acquiring incendiaries, may not suffice unless accompanied by acts demonstrating progress toward ignition.

Penalties for branntilløb vary by jurisdiction, but the act is typically punishable as an offense in its own right or as an element of arson. The severity often depends on factors such as the risk posed, the property involved, whether any people were endangered, and the use of dangerous means. If the attempted act would likely have caused significant damage or harm, penalties are generally more severe.

Common examples include attempting to ignite a building with accelerants, placing an incendiary device, or tampering with a fire-safety system with intent to cause a fire. Evidence in branntilløb cases is gathered by police and fire investigators through scene examination, forensics, surveillance footage, and witness statements. The offense is closely related to the broader concept of arson and to the legal category of criminal attempt, and it is discussed in Danish legal literature and public reporting on arson investigations.