Bureau of Fire, Arson, and Explosives Investigations
The Bureau of Fire, Arson & Explosives Investigations is a law enforcement bureau within the Criminal Investigations Division. The Bureau's sworn law enforcement and nonsworn personnel perform functions within the criminal justice system. The core missions of the personnel within the Bureau include the detection, investigation, apprehension, and prosecution of offenders of arson and explosive-related crimes. The Bureau also works to enhance investigations and prosecutions and to deter arson and explosive-related crimes through education and training.
The Bureau is divided into two operational districts: District One and District Two. District One comprises the Northeast and Northwest regions, and District Two comprises the North Central, South Central, and South regions. These five regions respond to requests for service and provide investigative support to fire, police, citizens, and visitors of Florida. The Bureau also supports the Division's Special Operations Bomb Squad, UAV, SRT, and K-9 units.
In 2022, the Bureau received more than 2,898 new requests for investigative assistance from city, county, state, and federal agencies and private citizens. The Bureau investigated incidents with an estimated property loss of nearly $125 million. Of this estimated loss, approximately $16 million was attributed to arson. As a result of those investigations, the Bureau made arrests in 188 cases with 201 defendant arrests.
Due to fire and arson investigations being complex, arduous, and inherently dangerous, the Bureau does not investigate every fire that occurs within Florida. However, upon request, Bureau officers can respond 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to investigate fires and explosion-related incidents.
We are working harder than ever to ensure those responsible for arson are apprehended and prosecuted. If you have any information regarding a suspected arson, we encourage residents to report Arson Tips through the Arson Tip Hotline at 1-877-NO-ARSON (662-7766). Any information leading to a successful arrest and prosecution may be eligible for a cash reward.
