State v. Rife

CLARK, Judge.

Appellant Jerry Rife was jury tried and convicted of the offense of arson in the second degree, a class C felony, § 569.050, RSMo 1978. On this appeal, among the points advanced, Rife contends that the state failed to make a submissible case. We therefore review the evidence.

The commercial building in which the fire occurred was occupied by Rife and his wife under a lease from the owner, one Hoelzel, and was used to conduct the business of a tavern. After some two years of operation, the business had accumulated substantial debts and Rife determined that a sale should be…