By Nathan Calvert
In the realm of law enforcement, specialized training is paramount. Among the myriad of specializations available, arson and fire investigation stands out due to its reliance on scientific principles, meticulous attention to detail, and the necessity for investigators to serve as expert witnesses in court. While traditionally viewed as the domain of fire departments or specially trained law enforcement officers such as state fire marshals, arson and fire investigation training offers unique perspectives that can significantly benefit all investigators.
The scientific method in fire investigation
Fire investigation is deeply rooted in the scientific method — and its evolution in the courts has required a unique approach involving observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation and conclusion. Unlike many cases where circumstantial evidence and reasonable theories might suffice, fire investigations demand that every statement be supported by testing to prove the events in the fire.
For instance, determining the cause of a fire involves:
- Analyzing burn patterns.
- Identifying potential ignition sources.
- Conducting experiments to replicate fire behavior under controlled conditions.
Adopting this systematic approach in other types of investigations opens new opportunities to enhance our court cases. Whether investigating a burglary or a homicide, applying the scientific method helps ensure that each step is thoroughly documented and every piece of evidence is scrutinized. By testing several hypotheses as to how a murder or a burglary may have occurred and ruling out those that do not fit, we can give a jury a new level of certainty in how an event transpired.
Attention to detail
Fire investigations demand an extraordinary level of detail. Investigators must meticulously examine charred remains, identify subtle differences in burn patterns, collect minute traces of accelerants and account for the preservation of evidence despite burn damage — challenges that other types of evidence don’t present. This attention to detail is not just about finding clues — it’s about piecing together a coherent narrative from seemingly disparate fragments and often from evidence that fundamentally changes simply by being handled.
Such meticulousness is invaluable in any investigative context. Whether analyzing financial records in a fraud case or examining blood spatter patterns at a crime scene, attention to detail can make or break a case. Training in fire investigation hones this skill, teaching officers to notice what others might overlook.
Expert witness testimony
Fire investigators often serve as expert witnesses, presenting complex technical information in court. This role requires a deep understanding of investigative techniques and the ability to communicate findings clearly and persuasively. Compelling expert testimony can significantly influence a jury’s perception and, ultimately, the outcome of a trial.
Investigators trained as expert witnesses learn how to present evidence logically and coherently. They become adept at explaining complicated ideas in a format that is easy for a jury to understand while defending their conclusions under cross-examination. These skills are transferable across various domains within law enforcement.
Unique perspectives from fire investigation
Fire investigation offers unique insights that can be applied broadly within law enforcement. For example, understanding fire dynamics can provide valuable perspectives on crime scenes involving explosions or incendiary devices. Similarly, knowledge of chemical reactions involved in combustion can aid in drug-related investigations where chemical processes are relevant.
Moreover, fire investigation training develops the mind for identifying signs of intentional tampering or staging, skills that are equally applicable when investigating staged crime scenes or fraudulent activities.
Example case: Uncovering insurance fraud with arson investigation techniques
One common example where this type of training might help determine whether car accidents are staged. Techniques used by arson investigators can be employed to uncover insurance fraud involving staged car accidents. By applying principles from fire investigation — such as analyzing damage patterns — the investigators can prove that certain accidents had been deliberately caused.
This might be applied in several ways, including:
Damage pattern analysis
- Burn patterns vs. impact patterns: Just as arson investigators analyze burn patterns to determine fire origins and spread, similar principles can be applied to examine impact patterns on vehicles. Look for inconsistencies between the reported accidents and the actual damage.
- Controlled experiments: Investigators recreated crash scenarios under controlled conditions or through modeling software to compare with the damage observed on the suspect vehicles. This can help identify discrepancies that suggest deliberate staging rather than accidental collisions.
Trace evidence collection
- Accelerants vs. mechanical tampering: In arson cases, investigators search for accelerants that might indicate deliberate ignition. Similarly, this process can be used to examine vehicles for signs of mechanical tampering, such as cut brake lines or manipulated airbags, that would indicate intentional sabotage.
- Chemical analysis: Residues from mechanical tampering can be analyzed using techniques similar to those used in detecting accelerants, providing further evidence of deliberate actions.
Conclusion
Arson and fire investigation training equip investigators with a robust skill set that extends far beyond identifying the causes of fires. As presented in arson investigation courses, the scientific method fosters critical thinking; attention to detail ensures thoroughness in unique ways from how they are taught in general investigations courses; expertise in court testimony enhances communication; and unique perspectives broaden investigative horizons. By embracing this specialized training, investigators can significantly improve their overall capabilities — ultimately leading to more effective law enforcement across all areas.
Bibliography
1. DeHaan JD, Icove DJ. (2016.) Kirk’s Fire Investigation (7th ed.). Pearson.
2. Drysdale D. (2011.) An Introduction to Fire Dynamics (3rd ed.). Wiley.
3. Federal Rules of Evidence, Rule 702.
4. James SH, Nordby JJ. (Eds.). (2009.) Forensic Science: An Introduction to Scientific and Investigative Techniques (3rd ed.). CRC Press.
5. National Fire Protection Association. (2021.) NFPA 921: Guide for Fire and Explosion Investigations. NFPA.
6. Wells JT, Gillis LM. (Eds.). (2013.) Insurance Fraud Casebook: Paying a Premium for Crime. Wiley.
About the author
Nathan Calvert is a 10-year veteran of law enforcement with experience as a police officer in Alabama. During his career, he has served as a patrol officer, investigator, and supervisor and has assisted police across the state in investigations and training, particularly in issues of campus law enforcement. In addition to this experience, Nathan has completed 100 hours of training under the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI).