NCJ Number
92821
Date Published
1984
Length
15 pages
Annotation
The establishment of a motive is the primary concern when investigating the fraud fire. The investigator must understand how to obtain desired documentation.
Abstract
The paper suggests ways of acquiring the documents necessary for arson investigation. Early access to the relevant papers is critical. The investigator should have the subject sign a Consent to Search form, thereby allowing seizure of documents found on the scene. Areas that should be checked during most investigations of a possible fraud fire include insurance information, building/property data, business data, owner/occupant lifestyle, product development, and taxes. The investigator should consider all possible motives. Signs of poor economic health, inability to sell a building, and a history of frequent and costly repairs are all possible indicators of motive. A 9-item bibliography is included.