Nine Suspects Arrested in Seven 2022-2023 Arson Cases in Louisiana
Nine Suspects Arrested in Seven 2022-2023 Arson Cases in Louisiana
Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana – Nine suspects have been arrested in seven 2022-2023 arson cases in Louisiana.
The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office (LASFM) reported on April 4, 2023, that over the previous seven months, the LASFM, in collaboration with the Hammond Fire Department’s Fire Prevention Bureau, had arrested nine people in seven arson cases, two of which are linked and have been elevated to the federal level.
This surge in arrests is a result of new initiatives led by State Fire Marshal Chief Dan Wallis to bolster the agency’s investigative operations with the state’s fire service agencies, particularly our fire prevention bureau partners.
“This is exceptional work that I am very proud of,” said State Fire Marshal Chief Dan Wallis, “I want to thank the Hammond Fire Department for its commitment to the community’s safety.”
House fires, a vehicle fire, and a business fire occurred between August 2022 and January 2023. Two of those house fires, on Camp Street and Washington Avenue, feature the same individuals suspected of being involved in an insurance fraud scheme involving multiple other fires in and out of Louisiana. The Louisiana Attorney General’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) are now looking into the case.
Another significant incident occurred on Christmas Eve at the Hammond Walmart store. The suspect was discovered quickly and placed into jail within days of the incident, thanks to the prompt work of this team of investigators and assistance from the public and local media.
“I am proud of our team, not only in the Hammond Fire Prevention Bureau but the Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s office, along with the other agencies that support our efforts,” said Hammond Fire Chief Daniel Folks, “A collaborative effort between these agencies has produced great results and I look forward to the continued success of them. The citizens of Hammond and surrounding areas are lucky to have such a dedicated group that enjoys working together.”
“I want this success story to remind all Louisiana fire departments and districts that the LASFM is here to help them show potential criminals that there is not only no tolerance for arson, but that there is a strong team at the ready that is very successful in cracking down on those that commit arson crimes,” said Wallis.
The LASFM expressed gratitude to the Hammond Police Department, Ponchatoula Police Department, and Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in these cases.
The LASFM welcomes anonymous fire case tips in two ways: online at lasfm.org or by calling its Arson Hotline at 1-844-954-1221.
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. A person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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