NCJ Number
90405
Journal
Fire and Arson Investigator Volume: 33 Issue: 3 Dated: (March 1983) Pages: 20-26
Date Published
1983
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article describes the team approach for insurers to use in the investigation of possible arson, and a systematic division of an investigation into stages is also portrayed.
Abstract
It is the responsibility of an insurer to investigate fire claims to determine whether arson was involved and then to present such evidence in court as is required to defend the nonpayment of the claim. In investigating a fire, the insurer should use a team that consists of (1) an adjuster, who conducts the initial interviews of witnesses and compiles information on loss and damage; (2) a cause-and-origin investigator, who determines where the fire started, identifies the presence of accelerant, takes and preserves samples, establishes the chain of custody, and secures the chemical analysis; (3) a private investigator, who identifies witnesses and takes their statements; (4) an accountant, who develops information from the records of the business affected by the fire to resolve issues of motive and extent of loss; and (5) an attorney, who provides assistance in formulating the scope of the investigation and reviewing evidence obtained. Six stages should be routinely involved in a coordinated arson investigation: (1) immediate recognition of the fire cause, (2) team identification, (3) preliminary investigation, (4) examination under oath, (5) followup investigation, and (6) final evaluation. At the conclusion of each stage a decision should be made as to whether or not to proceed into the next stage.