Field Operations
Fire and arson investigation is perhaps one of the most challenging fields a law enforcement investigator can pursue. Fire investigations are complex, arduous and inherently dangerous. The Bureau does not investigate every fire that occurs within the state, however, upon request, the Bureau will respond to assist city, county, state and federal agencies and private citizens in investigating fires and explosion-related incidents.
Arson is a serious crime and the associated penalties are tough. In Florida, arson is a crime punishable by imprisonment, fines and restitution. Currently under Florida law, anyone who willfully starts a fire that damages a structure occupied by a person, a dwelling or any structure where persons are normally present is guilty of a first-degree felony punishable by up to 30 years in prison.
Engagement and assistance of State Fire Marshal, Bureau of Fire and Arson Investigations’ resources upon the occurrence of a fire or explosion.
The State Fire Marshal shall investigate the cause, origin, and circumstances of every fire occurring in this state wherein property has been damaged or destroyed where there is probable cause to believe that the fire was the result of carelessness or design.
The Bureau is a member of the State Emergency Response Team, ESF16 and deploys personnel during any declared emergency, natural disaster, terrorist incident or civil unrest under the Mutual Aid Agreement.
2012 Investigator of the Year
Detective Charles Toledo
Detective Toledo was awarded Investigator of the Year by the Florida Advisory Committee on Arson Prevention on November 14, 2012.
