NCJ Number
76357
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 49 Issue: 8 Dated: (August 1980) Pages: 5-11
Date Published
1980
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This concluding article, part of a series explains some of the psychological characteristics and behavior patterns of arsonists, especially those who engage in arson-for-profit.
Abstract
Arson, including arson-for-profit, is one of the fastest growing criminal activities in the United States today. Investigations into arson-for-profit schemes and enterprises have disclosed that profit-motivated arsonists and conspirators include members and affiliates or organized crime, amateur criminals, attorneys, building and repair contractors, building inspectors, businessmen, housewives, fire department officials and police officials. When attempts are made, however, to develop a psychological profile of arsonists and conspirators, researchers find little data available about the psychological aspects of arson-for-profit. To effect an arsonist targeting program, researchers need a profiling strategy based on a data collection protocol. The protocol should be designed to acquire and analyze relevant psychological, sociological, and demographic characteristics of known torches and conspirators. One photo and 16 references are included.