Db Ch 15

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  • 1/41 Questions

    Few arson cases lead to arrests, and fewer than 20 percent of arrests result in convictions

    • True
    • False
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About This Quiz

DB CH 15 explores key aspects of arson investigation in the U. S., focusing on challenges in crime detection and evidence analysis. It assesses skills in identifying arson, understanding arsonist behavior, and the roles of firefighters in investigations.

Forensic Science Quizzes & Trivia

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  • 2. 

    Arson does not have an immediate corpus delecti. It is therefore the responsibility of the investigator to prove that a specific fire did occur and that it was ignited deliberately.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The explanation for the correct answer "True" is that arson cases do not have an immediate corpus delecti, meaning there is no physical evidence or body to prove the crime. Therefore, it is the investigator's responsibility to gather evidence and establish that a fire did occur and that it was intentionally started.

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  • 3. 

    Circumstantial evidence in an arson case includes an establishment of both motive and opportunity

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    In an arson case, circumstantial evidence refers to evidence that indirectly suggests the guilt of the accused. Establishing both motive and opportunity are important aspects of circumstantial evidence in such cases. Motive refers to the reason or intention behind committing the crime, while opportunity refers to the chance or ability to commit the crime. By proving both motive and opportunity, it strengthens the circumstantial evidence against the accused, making it more likely that they are guilty. Therefore, the statement that circumstantial evidence in an arson case includes an establishment of both motive and opportunity is true.

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  • 4. 

    Only fires determined through investigation to have been willfully or maliciously set are classified as arsons. Fires of suspicious or unknown origins and excluded from this category.

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Arsons are only classified as fires that have been deliberately or maliciously set after a thorough investigation. Fires with suspicious or unknown origins are not included in this classification. Therefore, the statement that only fires determined through investigation to have been willfully or maliciously set are classified as arsons is true.

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  • 5. 

    Pyromaniacs are associated with sexual perversion and tend to have difficulty in sustaining good relationships with the opposite sex

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    This statement suggests that pyromaniacs, individuals with a compulsive desire to set fire, have a link to sexual perversion and struggle to maintain healthy relationships with the opposite sex. The explanation implies that there is a correlation between pyromania and these factors, although it does not provide any evidence or further details to support this claim.

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  • 6. 

    When measured on a cost per incident basis, arson is the most expensive crime committed

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Arson is considered the most expensive crime when measured on a cost per incident basis. This is because arson involves intentionally setting fire to property, resulting in significant damage and financial loss. The costs associated with arson include property damage, loss of belongings, potential injuries or fatalities, firefighting efforts, insurance claims, and legal proceedings. These expenses can quickly add up, making arson the most costly crime per incident compared to other criminal activities.

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  • 7. 

    The first step in an arson investigation should be to:

    • Uncover possible motives of likely suspects

    • Question witnesses for possible suspects

    • Interview the owner's insurance representative

    • Locate the point of origin for the fire

    Correct Answer
    A. Locate the point of origin for the fire
    Explanation
    In an arson investigation, the first step should be to locate the point of origin for the fire. This is crucial because determining where the fire started can provide valuable information about how it was ignited and potentially identify any accelerants used. By identifying the point of origin, investigators can then proceed to gather evidence, analyze the scene, and uncover possible motives or suspects. Questioning witnesses and interviewing the owner's insurance representative may be important steps in the investigation, but they should come after locating the point of origin.

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  • 8. 

    Each year, fire kills more Americans than all natural disasters combined

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    Fire is a significant cause of death in the United States, and it claims more lives each year than all natural disasters combined. This statement highlights the severity of fire-related incidents and emphasizes the importance of fire safety measures and prevention strategies. It underscores the need for awareness, preparedness, and caution to minimize the risk of fire-related fatalities.

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  • 9. 

    The longer a fire burns, the pattern of alligatoring will become larger and less shallow

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    The statement is false because the longer a fire burns, the pattern of alligatoring does not become larger and less shallow. Alligatoring refers to the cracking and scaling of the surface of wood or paint due to intense heat. As a fire burns for a longer period, the wood or paint will continue to burn and deteriorate, causing the alligatoring pattern to become smaller and more shallow.

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  • 10. 

    When the question of _________ is addressed, the matter becomes a law enforcement concern

    • Why the fire was started

    • Who started the fire

    • How the fire started

    • Where the fire began

    Correct Answer
    A. Who started the fire
    Explanation
    When the question of who started the fire is addressed, it becomes a law enforcement concern because determining the person responsible for starting the fire is crucial in order to hold them accountable and initiate legal actions against them. Identifying the perpetrator helps in investigating the motive behind the act, gathering evidence, and ensuring justice is served. Law enforcement agencies play a vital role in investigating such incidents and bringing the culprits to justice.

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  • 11. 

    Few fire departments have the legal authority to investigate arson fires

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. True
    Explanation
    The statement suggests that only a limited number of fire departments have the legal power to conduct investigations into arson fires. This implies that not all fire departments have the authority to investigate such cases. Therefore, the answer is true.

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  • 12. 

    The term _______ refers to the pattern of crevices formed by the burning of a wooden structure

    • Alligatoring

    • Charring

    • Buckling

    • Layering

    Correct Answer
    A. Alligatoring
    Explanation
    Alligatoring refers to the pattern of crevices formed by the burning of a wooden structure. This term is used to describe the cracking and splitting of the surface of wood, resembling the skin of an alligator. It occurs when the wood is exposed to high temperatures for a prolonged period of time, causing the surface to shrink and crack. Alligatoring is a common phenomenon in fire-damaged wooden structures and is often used as an indicator of the severity of the fire.

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  • 13. 

    When searching for a bomb, the investigator should look for ___________

    • Anything that appears unusual

    • A ticking-noise

    • Wires connected to unknown objects

    • Anything resembling a clock or timer

    Correct Answer
    A. Anything that appears unusual
    Explanation
    When searching for a bomb, it is important for investigators to look for anything that appears unusual. This is because bombs can be disguised in various ways and may not always resemble a typical explosive device. By being vigilant and looking for anything out of the ordinary, investigators can increase their chances of identifying and locating a potential bomb threat. This includes paying attention to suspicious packages, strange behavior, or any objects that seem out of place in the surrounding environment.

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  • 14. 

    Which motive for arson accounts for 50 percent of all arsons?

    • Revenge

    • Pyromania

    • Insurance fraud

    • Crime concealment

    Correct Answer
    A. Insurance fraud
    Explanation
    Insurance fraud is the motive for arson that accounts for 50 percent of all arsons. This occurs when individuals intentionally set fire to their property in order to collect insurance money. This motive is driven by financial gain and is a common reason behind many arson cases.

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  • 15. 

    The word _____ (meaning "trust") refers to a fast and cost-effective method for the worldwide remiitance of money or value, particularly for persons who may be outside the reach of the traditional financial sector

    • Hawala

    • Milnora

    • Awanas

    • Thenha

    Correct Answer
    A. Hawala
    Explanation
    Hawala is the correct answer because it is a word that means "trust" and it refers to a fast and cost-effective method for the worldwide remittance of money or value. This method is especially useful for individuals who may be outside the reach of the traditional financial sector.

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  • 16. 

    Why is the investigation of fire difficult?

    • 80 percent of fire protection in the United States are volunteer departments trained to put fires out but not investigate

    • The point of origin in a fire is usually destroyed suring the extinguishment of the fire

    • The increased use of untracebale accelerants being used to ignite and sustain fires

    • The proving of motive is extremely difficult in most cases

    Correct Answer
    A. 80 percent of fire protection in the United States are volunteer departments trained to put fires out but not investigate
    Explanation
    The investigation of fire is difficult because 80 percent of fire protection in the United States are volunteer departments trained to put fires out but not investigate. This means that there is a lack of trained professionals who specialize in fire investigation. Without proper training and expertise, it becomes challenging to determine the cause and origin of a fire.

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  • 17. 

    If a room has a false or suspended ceiling, the _____ sweep involves this area

    • Second

    • Third

    • Fourth

    • Fifth

    Correct Answer
    A. Fourth
    Explanation
    If a room has a false or suspended ceiling, the fourth sweep involves this area. This implies that during the fourth sweep, attention is given to the false or suspended ceiling. The false or suspended ceiling is an important part of the room, and it is necessary to clean or inspect it during the fourth sweep.

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  • 18. 

    ________ is defined as "the unlawful use of force or violence, commited by a group of two or more individuals, against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives"

    • Domestic terrorism

    • Terrorism

    • International terrorism

    • Politically motivated terrorism

    Correct Answer
    A. Domestic terrorism
    Explanation
    Domestic terrorism is defined as "the unlawful use of force or violence, committed by a group of two or more individuals, against persons or property to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives." This type of terrorism occurs within the borders of a particular country and involves individuals or groups who are motivated by political or social ideologies to carry out acts of violence or destruction. It is distinct from international terrorism, which involves acts committed by individuals or groups from one country against another.

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  • 19. 

    An estimated 50 percent of all fire related property damage in the United States is due to:

    • Arson for profit

    • Arson for revenge

    • Arson for vandalism

    • Arson for crime concealment

    Correct Answer
    A. Arson for profit
    Explanation
    Arson for profit is the correct answer because it states that approximately 50 percent of fire-related property damage in the United States is caused by intentionally setting fires for financial gain. This suggests that individuals deliberately start fires in order to collect insurance money or profit from the destruction of property. The other options, arson for revenge, vandalism, and crime concealment, may also contribute to fire-related property damage, but the given answer specifically highlights arson for profit as the primary cause.

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  • 20. 

    The most commonly used accelerants are gasoline, kerosene, turpentine, and diesel fuel. These are all organic compounds containing mixtures of _________

    • Hydrocarbon molecules

    • Alkaline acids

    • Petroleum bases

    • Fossil fuels

    Correct Answer
    A. Hydrocarbon molecules
    Explanation
    The correct answer is hydrocarbon molecules. This is because gasoline, kerosene, turpentine, and diesel fuel are all organic compounds that contain mixtures of hydrocarbon molecules. Hydrocarbons are compounds composed of hydrogen and carbon atoms, and they are commonly found in fossil fuels such as petroleum.

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  • 21. 

    When searching a room for a bomb it should be divided into two equal parts. The equal division should be based on:

    • The size of the room

    • The number and type of objects in the room

    • The number of searchers

    • The shape of the room

    Correct Answer
    A. The number and type of objects in the room
    Explanation
    The number and type of objects in the room should be considered when dividing the room into two equal parts while searching for a bomb. This is because certain objects may require more thorough inspection or specialized techniques to detect a bomb. By taking into account the number and type of objects, searchers can allocate their time and resources more effectively and increase the chances of finding the bomb.

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  • 22. 

    Which are considered to be appropriate roles for fire fighters who put out a suspicious fire? I.     Investigate the fire's origin II.    Detect the possibility of arson III.   Investigate the crime of arson

    • I, II

    • II, III

    • I, III

    • I, II, III

    Correct Answer
    A. I, II
    Explanation
    Fire fighters who put out a suspicious fire are considered appropriate to investigate the fire's origin and detect the possibility of arson. This means that they are responsible for determining where and how the fire started and whether it was intentionally set. They play a crucial role in gathering evidence and information that can help in identifying any criminal activity related to the fire. However, investigating the crime of arson itself may involve other law enforcement agencies and specialists.

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  • 23. 

    Which physical evidence in a fire indicates burning alcohol?

    • Black smoke

    • Blue-orange flames

    • Green-purple flames

    • White smoke

    Correct Answer
    A. Blue-orange flames
    Explanation
    Blue-orange flames indicate burning alcohol because when alcohol burns, it produces a characteristic blue flame with hints of orange. This is due to the presence of carbon in alcohol, which burns with a blue flame, and the presence of impurities or other compounds that can cause the flame to have an orange tint. This color combination is a distinctive characteristic of alcohol combustion and can be used as physical evidence to identify the presence of burning alcohol in a fire.

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  • 24. 

    ___________ arson is the deliberate burning of property that does not create a risk to human life

    • Aggravated

    • Simple

    • Typical

    • Intentional

    • Misdemeanor

    Correct Answer
    A. Simple
    Explanation
    Simple arson refers to the intentional act of setting fire to property that does not pose a threat to human life. This type of arson is considered less severe compared to aggravated arson, which involves setting fire to property with the intent to harm or endanger human life. Therefore, the correct answer is "Simple" as it aligns with the given definition of arson that does not create a risk to human life.

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  • 25. 

    Which physical evidence in a fire indicates the burning of a petroleum base?

    • Black smoke

    • Blue-orange flames

    • Green-purple flames

    • White smoke

    Correct Answer
    A. Black smoke
    Explanation
    Black smoke is the correct answer because it is a common indicator of the burning of a petroleum base. When petroleum-based materials burn, they produce incomplete combustion, resulting in the release of black smoke. This is due to the presence of carbon particles and other impurities in the fuel. The color of the smoke can vary depending on the specific type of petroleum-based material being burned and the conditions of the fire.

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  • 26. 

    Preparations used to set the fire (such as newspapers, rags, and other flammable waste material) are referred to as _____

    • Plants

    • Trailers

    • Origins

    • Kindling

    • Starters

    Correct Answer
    A. Plants
  • 27. 

    Which is true regarding the crime of arson in the United States?

    • The number of arsons per year has decreased somewhat since the late 1970's

    • Arson is a low priority crime for many police departments and usually has low clearance rates

    • In most states arson is classified as a property crime

    • The average annual cost of arson in the U.S. is estimated at $1 billion and approximately 300 lives

    Correct Answer
    A. Arson is a low priority crime for many police departments and usually has low clearance rates
    Explanation
    Arson is a low priority crime for many police departments and usually has low clearance rates. This means that arson cases are not given as much attention or resources compared to other crimes, and the likelihood of solving these cases and bringing the perpetrators to justice is relatively low.

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  • 28. 

    Propertly losses related to arson are estimated at $ ___________ annually

    • 5 billion

    • 50 billion

    • 100 billion

    • 10 billion

    • 25 billion

    Correct Answer
    A. 5 billion
    Explanation
    The estimated annual property losses related to arson are 5 billion dollars.

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  • 29. 

    One of the most advanced techniques for detecting accelerants in fire debris is called _________ 

    • Headspace gas chromatography

    • Alligatoring

    • "sniffer" dogs

    • Hydrochloric mastsensory

    Correct Answer
    A. Headspace gas chromatography
    Explanation
    Headspace gas chromatography is an advanced technique used for detecting accelerants in fire debris. It involves analyzing the vapor phase above a sample to identify and quantify volatile compounds. This method is particularly effective in identifying volatile substances that may have been used to start or accelerate a fire. By separating and analyzing the components of the vapor phase, headspace gas chromatography can provide valuable evidence in fire investigations. Alligatoring, "sniffer" dogs, and hydrochloric mastsensory are not related to the detection of accelerants in fire debris.

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  • 30. 

    Alligatoring becomes heavier in areas exposed to fire for longer periods of time

    • True

    • False

    Correct Answer
    A. False
    Explanation
    Alligatoring refers to the cracking and checking of paint or varnish that resembles the skin of an alligator. This phenomenon occurs due to various factors such as aging, weathering, or improper application. It is not influenced by the duration of exposure to fire. Therefore, the correct answer is False.

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  • 31. 

    ___________ arson is the deliberate burning of property while creating an imminent danger to human life or risking great bodily harm

    • Aggravated

    • Simple

    • Lethal

    • Intentional

    • Revenge

    Correct Answer
    A. Aggravated
    Explanation
    Aggravated arson refers to the intentional act of setting fire to property while also posing a direct threat to human life or risking serious bodily harm. This term is used to distinguish cases where the act of arson is accompanied by additional factors that increase the severity of the crime. These factors could include the presence of people inside the property, the use of explosive devices, or the intent to cause harm or fear to others. Aggravated arson is considered a more serious offense compared to simple arson, as it involves a higher level of danger and potential harm to individuals.

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  • 32. 

    Which physical evidence in a fire indicates the burning of a vegetable base (such as straw or hay)?

    • Black smoke

    • Blue-orange flames

    • Green-purple flames

    • White smoke

    Correct Answer
    A. White smoke
    Explanation
    White smoke is the correct answer because it indicates the burning of a vegetable base such as straw or hay. When organic materials like straw or hay burn, they produce white smoke due to the presence of water vapor and other combustion byproducts. This is different from black smoke, which is usually associated with the burning of petroleum-based products, and blue-orange or green-purple flames, which are generally indicative of the burning of certain chemicals or metals.

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  • 33. 

    There are approximately _____ automobiles burned each year for people to collect on its insurance

    • 1,500

    • 15,000

    • 150,000

    • 5,000

    • 25,000

    Correct Answer
    A. 1,500
    Explanation
    The given answer is 1,500. This suggests that there are around 1,500 automobiles burned each year for people to collect insurance on.

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  • 34. 

    When a bomb is found, identify the danger area and block it off with a "clear zone" of at least ______, including floors below and above the object

    • 100 feet

    • 300 feet

    • 500 feet

    • 250 feet

    • 1000 feet

    Correct Answer
    A. 300 feet
    Explanation
    When a bomb is found, it is important to establish a "clear zone" to ensure the safety of individuals in the surrounding area. This clear zone should be at least 300 feet in radius, including the floors below and above the object. This distance is necessary to minimize the potential impact of the bomb and to protect people from the blast, shrapnel, and other potential hazards.

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  • 35. 

    Which are examples of "trailers"?

    • Gasoline

    • Gunpowder

    • Alcohol

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Gasoline
    A. Gunpowder
    A. Alcohol
    Explanation
    The examples given, gasoline, gunpowder, and alcohol, can all be considered "trailers" because they are substances that can be ignited or used to cause an explosion. These substances are commonly used in various industries and applications, such as fuel for vehicles (gasoline), propellant for firearms (gunpowder), and as a recreational beverage (alcohol).

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  • 36. 

    ____ individuals and entities are publically designated as terrorists or terrorist supporters by the United States

    • 250

    • 100

    • 500

    • 1000

    • 600

    Correct Answer
    A. 250
    Explanation
    The United States designates 250 individuals and entities as terrorists or terrorist supporters.

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  • 37. 

    Terrorism is:

    • Premeditated

    • Politically motivated

    • Violent

    • Committed against noncombatant targets

    • Foreign based

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Premeditated
    A. Politically motivated
    A. Violent
    A. Committed against noncombatant targets
    Explanation
    The correct answer is premeditated, politically motivated, violent, committed against noncombatant targets. Terrorism refers to acts of violence that are planned in advance, with the intention of promoting a political agenda. These acts are characterized by their violent nature, often targeting innocent civilians or noncombatants. Additionally, terrorism is typically carried out by individuals or groups based in foreign countries.

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  • 38. 

    Which characteristics describe the typical pyromaniac?

    • White male

    • Late teens

    • High intelligence

    • Middle to high income level

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. White male
    A. Late teens
    Explanation
    The typical pyromaniac is often described as a white male in his late teens. This demographic is commonly associated with individuals who exhibit a fascination and compulsion towards fire-setting. While it is important to note that not all pyromaniacs fit this description, studies have shown that this demographic is more prevalent among those diagnosed with pyromania. Other factors such as high intelligence and middle to high income level may also be present in some cases, but they are not as consistently associated with pyromaniacs as the demographic of white males in their late teens.

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  • 39. 

    Which are recommendations for bomb searchers to follow?

    • Only one person should search the premesis

    • Listen with eyes closed when entering the room

    • Cut any visible electric wires attached to a probable bomb

    • Search first around room walls and then move to the cventer of the room

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Listen with eyes closed when entering the room
    A. Search first around room walls and then move to the cventer of the room
    Explanation
    The recommendations for bomb searchers to follow are to listen with eyes closed when entering the room and to search first around room walls and then move to the center of the room. By listening with eyes closed, bomb searchers can focus on any unusual sounds or ticking noises that may indicate the presence of a bomb. Searching first around room walls is important as bombs are often hidden in corners or against walls. Moving to the center of the room afterwards ensures a thorough search of the entire area.

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  • 40. 

    Which reasons explain why arsonists are so difficult to convict?

    • Lack of public concern about arson as a crime

    • Slow payments by insurance companies for losses

    • Lack of adequate training in fire investigation

    • Reluctance by prosecutors to file arson cases

    Correct Answer(s)
    A. Lack of adequate training in fire investigation
    A. Reluctance by prosecutors to file arson cases
    Explanation
    Arsonists are difficult to convict due to a lack of adequate training in fire investigation. Without proper training, investigators may struggle to gather sufficient evidence or properly analyze fire scenes, making it challenging to identify the cause or prove arson. Additionally, reluctance by prosecutors to file arson cases further hampers convictions. Prosecutors may be hesitant to pursue arson charges due to the complexity of fire investigations or a lack of resources. These factors combined contribute to the difficulty in convicting arsonists.

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  • 41. 

    About ____ percent of arsons for vandalism are committed by juveniles

    • 95

    • 80

    • 75

    • 50

    • 65

    Correct Answer
    A. 95
    Explanation
    Juveniles are responsible for a high percentage of arsons for vandalism, with approximately 95% of these incidents being committed by them. This suggests that the majority of acts involving intentional fire-setting for the purpose of vandalism are carried out by individuals who are under the legal adult age. This statistic highlights the need for effective prevention and intervention strategies targeting juvenile fire-setters to address this issue and reduce the occurrence of such crimes.

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  • Mar 20, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
    ProProfs Editorial Team
  • May 09, 2012
    Quiz Created by
    Carrot_Cake
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