NCJ Number
97183
Journal
Fire and Arson Investigator Volume: 35 Issue: 2 Dated: (December 1984) Pages: 33-37,39-49
Date Published
1984
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This second part of a multipart article describes the observations made by trained firefighters at fire scenes and explains and illustrates techniques for defense counsel to use in examining expert witnesses and cross-examining firefighters in arson trials.
Abstract
Information from observations made at fire scenes covers the approach to the scene, the arrival at the scene, and the examination of the condition and contents of the building. Indicators of arson are explained in detail. The use of the arson investigator at the trial is explained, and a checklist of items that might be considered in determining the qualifications of expert witnesses is provided. Guidelines on cross-examination of witnesses emphasize the need to focus on poor observation by the witness. Methods of handling well-prepared witnesses are explained. Differences between handling the arson expert and other expert witnesses are explained. Questions concerning experiments conducted by such experts and situations where the defense admits the incendiary origin of the fire but denies that the defendant set it are also discussed.