Combating Arson-For-Profit: Advanced Techniques for Investigators [Paperback]

David J. Icove (Author), Vernon B. Wherry (Author), J. David Schroeder (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 1998

Combating Arson-for-Profit: Advanced Techniques for Investigators is a practical, step-by-step, how-to arson investigator's guide. It provides a model for structuring investigations with emphasis on planning, coordination, and scrupulous attention to records and details. The authors tell how to conduct an investigation and how to collect and handle documentary evidence. They discuss advanced investigative techniques including flow-charting, link analysis, and computer-assisted investigations.

Combating Arson-for-Profit describes how to prepare and present a case when the investigation is completed and includes Anatomy of an Arson-for-Profit Investigation, a fictionalized case based on an actual federal prosecution. The book also includes a companion computer disk with forms, illustrations, and investigative flowchart.

This second edition is a complete update, providing the scope and detail of information required to further the expertise of any individual or group conducting arson-for-profit investigations. Combating Arson-for-Profit will be useful to: Fire and arson investigators Fire science and criminal justice instructors Prosecutors, defense counsels, and judicial officials involved in arson investigations Insurance investigators.

Editorial Reviews

Review

" A wealth of arson investigative knowledge went into this book. It is exactly what is needed and long overdue." -- Charles G. McGrath, Chief, Arson Bureau, Ohio Division, State Fire Marshal

"Combating Arson-for-Profit is an excellent practical guide and resource for all parties (public and private) involved in the investigations of profit-motivated arson. The book also serves as a terrific educational and training text for individuals preparing to enter this important field." -- Angelo L. Pisani, Jr., Ph.D., President, Pisani & Associates LTD; Associate Professor, St. John's University, NY; Former NYC Arson Strike Forced Coordinator

"Combating Arson-for-Profit is an outstanding work that belongs not in investigators' libraries, but in the field where it can be used time and time again. ... it lays out the intricacies of complex investigations in a very manageable form." -- Peter S. Beering, Certified Fire Investigator, General Counsel, Dept. of Public Safety, City of Indianapolis

About the Author

David J. Icove, Ph.D., PE, is currently Manager, Special Projects and Technical Investigations, U.S. TVA Police, where he is responsible for arson prevention and control. A former instructor for nine years at the FBI Academy's Behavioral Science Unit, he co-developed the motive-based crime classification system for arson and fire-related crimes.

Product Details

• Paperback: 184 pages
• Publisher: Battelle Pr; 2 Pap/Dsk edition (July 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1574770233
• ISBN-13: 978-1574770230
• Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 6.9 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,879,399 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 11 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars An authoritative, easy-to-follow investigative resource., October 1, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Combating Arson-For-Profit: Advanced Techniques for Investigators (Paperback)

Combating Arson for Profit is a most welcome guide to the investigation of fraud. As an insurance company S.I.U. investigator, I recommend this to all those involved in these complex cases. The reader will discover how to conduct the "paper chase", document evidence, write professional reports, and assure the most comprehensive case for court. Highly recommended!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A must for any serious arson investigator or academician, August 27, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Combating Arson-For-Profit: Advanced Techniques for Investigators (Paperback)

Having used the 1st edition for many years, I was most interested to discover that the 2nd edition has been revised to include the latest in technological innovations including computer modeling. An invaluable publication!

2 of 2 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars quite informative a must buy for the serious arson invest., August 1, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: Combating Arson-For-Profit: Advanced Techniques for Investigators (Paperback)

This is one of the first books written in regards to this type of arson. The civilized world loses billions of dollars every year in property and lives do to this crime. This book should be read by all serious arson fighters