Serial Arson: Study of a Phenomenon

• NCJ Number: 238930
• Journal: .SIAK - International Edition Volume: 2 Dated: 2012 Pages: 58-67
• Author(s): Frank D. Stolt
• Date Published: 2012
• Length: 10 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: Austria

Annotation

This article reviews the definition, patterns, and prevention of arson fires, and presents offender profiles and investigative guidelines for the questioning of witnesses and persons charged, with a focus on Germany.

Abstract

A fully usable definition of "serial arson" cannot be found in the specialist literature on psychology, sociology, and criminalistics in the German-speaking world. On the other hand, there are many findings regarding a possible "offender profile." Serial arsonists tend to be male and act alone. They show a general preference for the same or similar targets, most of which are started with naturally flammable materials rather than accelerants. Rarely do serial arsonists change their preferred targets during a prolonged series of arsons. Serial arsonists who set fires in the evening hours are often youths between the ages of 14 and 18. Young adults between the ages of 18 and 21 tend to commit arson in the darkness of early evening, and adults typically commit arson in the late night or early morning hours. Serial arsonists tend to live in the communities where they set their fires. Preventing arson is not a major crime-prevention concern in Germany since the end of the 20th century. In the United States and Great Britain, arson prevention has focused on cooperation among police, fire services, insurance companies, and property owners in local security partnerships. In the investigation of arson fires, crime mapping can be used to show geographic patterns that facilitate the allocation of police resources. Another tool for investigating serial arsons is the use of the Arson Information and Analysis System, which is a computerized database, developed by the Brandenburg Federal Office of Criminal Investigation in cooperation with several police colleges. This article also provides guidance on the techniques for questioning witnesses and persons charged with arson. 30 notes and 3 references