NCJ Number
43011
Journal
FIREHOUSE Dated: (AUGUST 1977) Pages: 22-27,68-69
Date Published
1977
Length
8 pages
Annotation
ARSON-FOR-INSURANCE IS A LUCRATIVE CRIME THAT IS OFTEN DIFFICULT TO PROVE. THIS ARTICLE TRACES THE INVOLVEMENT OF THE MAFIA IN ARSON-IN-HIRE, AND DETAILS THE LAW ENFORCEMENT CRACKDOWNS ON THESE ACTIVITIES.
Abstract
ORGANIZED CRIME GROUPS HAVE ENTERED THE ARSON-FOR HIRE MARKET BY OFFERING SUCH ACTIVITIES (PACKAGE DEALS), STARTING WITH THE FIRE AND ENDING WITH COMPLETE ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE INSURANCE SETTLEMENT. OFTEN A 'MAFIA' MEMBER OR ASSOCIATE SERVES AS THE BROKER FOR THE FIRE. THE ARTICLE MENTIONS SEVERAL ORGANIZED CRIME FIGURES INVOLVED IN THE ARSON-FOR-HIRE BUSINESS, AND DESCRIBES SEVERAL ARSON CASES KNOWN TO BE PART OF THE MAFIAS ARSON-FRAUD ACTIVITIES. FINALLY, EFFORTS OF THE FEDERAL ORGANIZED CRIME FORCES TO INVESTIGATE AND HALT THESE ACTIVITES ARE DETAILED. (AUTHOR ABSTRACT MODIFIED)...DMC