Investigating Arson Cases

Was it arson or an accident?  In this one-hour presentation, fire scene analysis expert  John Lentini will explain how methods for arson investigation have evolved over the years and what you need to know to properly handle your next arson case.  In the last 20 years, many myths of fire science have been debunked but your case may involve a state expert who is still using outdated techniques.  Mr. Lentini will examine the history of fire scene investigation and explain when and how the proper techniques for investigating a scene should be used.  You will learn important litigation techniques such as how to retain your own fire expert before deposing a government expert or witness.  Additionally, this presentation will enlighten you on how to use DOJ approved training materials to determine the government expert’s qualifications and how to impeach him if necessary.  Finally, Mr. Lentini will present a case study that will show the dangers of improper scene analysis and how to avoid common mistakes in arson cases.  This presentation will include access to all the PowerPoint slides and examples.

Speaker: John Lentini - Big Pine Key, FL
John Lentini began his career in forensic science with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation Crime Laboratory in 1974. He joined the private sector in 1977, and for 28 years he was the lead fire investigator for Applied Technical Services of Marietta, Georgia. He is one of a handful of people on the planet certified to conduct both fire scene investigations and fire debris analysis. He has personally conducted more than 2,000 fire scene inspections and has appeared as an expert witness on more than 200 occasions. Mr. Lentini is an active proponent of standards for fire and other forensic investigations, and has made many presentations on the proper use of science in fire investigations. He was the Chairman of the Innocence Project’s Arson Review Committee, and was the lead author of the Willis and Willingham reviews. He was invited to speak during the National Academy of Science hearing that resulted in the 2009 report, Strengthening Forensic Science in the United States: A Path Forward.He is a member of the National Fire Protection Association Technical Committee on Fire Investigations, which writes NFPA 921, Guide for Fire and Explosion Investigations. He served for six years as the Chairman of ASTM Committee E30 on Forensic Sciences. His book, Scientific Protocols for Fire Investigation, (CRC Press 2012) is now in its second edition.Mr. Lentini started his own company in 2006, and is now an independent consultant living in the Florida Keys and doing business as Scientific Fire Analysis.

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