Dennis noted that a person's insurance and financial history may offer clues in an arson case. We look to see if they' ve made a recent increase in their policy, check their financial status. Both investigators said insurance companies often hire their own investigators. Most evidence circumstantial Ultimately, only 20 percent of arson cases are successfully prosecuted. Because of the destruction of hard evidence in the flames, the only evidence in most arson cases is largely circumstantial.
Witnesses are key.
If we don't have the help of the community with witness reports, etc. People need to help us help them. Fear of getting involved keeps a lot of people who may have information from reporting it, Bean said. You just never know' Both Bean and Dennis said arson investigations may last from one day to five years. You never know what may make your case.