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Arson is a crime—a felony ! It is believed that arson is much more prevalent than statistics indicate because there is a less than perfect system for reporting fires and their causes. Statistics, no matter how incomplete, do indicate that arson is one of the nation’s most expensive crimes against property; and it frequently results in injuries, sometimes in deaths. In addition, many people believe that arson is a product of organized crime, and the only victims are the enemies of organized crime. Most people would be surprised to know that the highest percentage of people who set fires are ordinary citizens who are in the financial trouble and see the fire and subsequent insurance payoff as a quick solution to the problem. You can help STOP the drain that arson makes on society and the ultimate reduction of your income by being observant and coming forward with any information you may have about a fire in your area. |
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ARSON IS A CRIME |
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ARSON Destroys people and their dreams and costs millions of dollars in property damage each year. |
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How Can You Help? · Always be observant and report unusual activities in your neighborhood, such as suspicious people, unusual moving activities, changes in lifestyles with no apparent reason, etc. · Report any information you may have about a fire in your area. |
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Considering the seriousness of the crime of arson, why do so few people become upset when arson occurs? People are outraged when a small convenience store in their neighborhood is robbed of a few hundred dollars. If that same store is intentionally set on fire, the community’s reaction is seldom as strong. These two crimes have a much different effect on a community. After a robbery, the convenience store will probably absorb the loss and return to normal operations. However, any small business that suffers extensive fire damage at the hands of an arsonist may have to close its doors for a short time or may even close permanently. Such a closing will result in the loss of income for employees, loss or suspension of employee benefits, and layoffs. There are several reasons why people are not outraged at the work of the arsonist. Some think of fire as one of those things that is just going to happen, not something that anyone can control. In fact, the United States leads the world in fires, arson, and fire-related injuries and deaths. Others assume that the fire does not affect them if the fire did not damage their property. Arson can, and does, affect everyone. This crime results in increased taxes to support law enforcement and fire departments. It also causes an increase in insurance premiums for area property owners. |
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In addition, many people believe that arson is a product of organized crime, and the only victims are the enemies of organized crime. Most people would be surprised to know that the highest percentage of people who set fires are ordinary citizens who are in financial trouble and see the fire & subsequent insurance payoff as a quick solution to the problem. You can help STOP the drain that arson makes on society and the ultimate reduction of your income by being observant and coming forward with any information you may have about a fire in your area. |
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City of Andrews 432-523-4820 |