A place to ask questions and add to probative and informative discussions associated with the various aspects of the field of fire investigation. -- FORUM RULES---BE CIVIL AND NO NAME CALLING, NO BELITTLING, NO BERATING, NO DENIGRATING others. Postings in violation of these rules can be removed or editted to remove the offending remarks at the discretion of the moderators and/or site administrator.
Re: advice...
Posted by:
jgmcfps (IP Logged)
Date: June 13, 2007 09:54AM
Given the scenario details you initially provided I can see how there is "beyond reasonable doubt" that the actions were "willful".
As far as the paper/napkin in the sink, is it possible that this item was carried out of the trash can by the plume and dropped into the sink during the event?
Are there pictures of the fire scene?
What does the original investigative report(s) say about the origin and cause?
Does the actor have anything in his/her background that would constitute a motive?
While motive is not an element of the crime, folks don't start fires without a reason (motive).
James G. Munger, PhD, FIFireE, CFPS
www.qdotengineering.com
W3NFA