NCJ Number
79207
Date Published
1979
Length
0 pages
Annotation
John Bonistalli, a prosecuting attorney for Suffolk County, Mass., (Boston) discusses effective techniques prosecutors can use in investigating and prosecuting persons involved in arson-for-profit rings.
Abstract
Arson has been called the 'modern way of refinancing.' Arson cases can be solved and prosecuted better if the prosecutor's office tries to cooperate more fully with the fire investigator's office. In addition, prosecutors should know the intricacies of the statutes in their State. Tactics prosecutors can use during cross-examination are explained in detail. The prosecutor's opening statement should be graphic in the details of the fire so that the jury will have a realistic assessment of the fire and feel involved in the case. Also discussed are the importance of keeping an accurate record of the chain of custody of the evidence, search and seizure laws, and the testimony of expert witnesses. Finally, prosecutors should be well-versed in the insurance process and in fire science. Questions and answers are included in the talk.