Category: Arson

Understanding the Motives for Arson Can Be the Key to Your Defense in Texas

Arson | Property Crimes

Not too far south of here, Austin experienced one of its biggest fires in years recently. On September 19, a fire burnt the foundation of a 45-unit condo development and spread to neighboring apartments.

People in the community initially feared that arson could have been involved. Investigators have since ruled out that possibility, but there are still no clear answers as to what caused the fire. In the meantime, the condo development has hired extra security for the area – just in case.

When stories like this make the rounds, many ask themselves, “why would someone do this?”

Sadly, there’s no one answer to why people set fires or commit arson. Knowing the various reasons, however, can help you if [...]

Your Guide to Texas Arson Laws

Arson

Our city currently employs a response team of nearly two dozen on its arson and bomb squad. They process crime scenes, perform case follow-up, provide expert testimony, and work with a K9 unit on a 24-hour a day rotation, investigating fire incidents around the Ft. Worth area. Every member of this team is a state-certified firefighter, police officer, or EMT/paramedic.

This year, in particular, the team has been dedicated to honing in on crimes of arson.

Why the laser focus?

Well, according to local government reporting, “arson causes an estimated $1 million in fire loss annually,” with 600 origin and cause investigations conducted each year in Fort Worth alone.

They want to reduce this – reduce property loss; reduce [...]