Because of their expertise in sleuthing fire causes, OSFM investigators are often used as expert witnesses in related cases. OSFM's fire investigators not only conduct investigations but serve warrants, make arrests, conduct interviews with witnesses, interrogate suspects and file criminal charges. Since the work can be dangerous, as evidenced by the shooting of former Chief Investigator Ron Taylor in 1991, investigators have full police powers and are armed when conducting an investigation. While on a stakeout in Indianapolis, Taylor was shot in the back by a drug dealer who mistook him for a narcotics agent. The bullet from that shooting is still lodged near Taylor's spine.
Training is essential.
Investigators are required to complete a 40-hour law enforcement course at the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy as well as take continuing education courses. Building materials are changing so fast that we must continue to educate ourselves to stay current. The OSFM Investigation division is taking a proactive approach to the juvenile firesetter in Indiana through its active involvement with the Juvenile Firesetter Task Force. This task force has as its goal to reduce the fire deaths of young children and the growing rate of property loss from arson fires started by juveniles. The division offers assistance to local communities in establishing their own programs to fight the problem of juvenile firesetting.