Exploring Arson Measurement

• In Event: Measurement Issues

Abstract

Arson is one of the least understood but one of the most serious and destructive of the common law crimes. A major issue in scientific thinking about arson is the lack of accurate data on its nature and distribution. Varied reasons have been offered for this, such as conflicting jurisdiction, the unique characteristics of the offense, and the lack of scholarly focus in its study. There is a need to better understand what data sources for arson exist, to determine whether or to what extent they can be reconciled, and what needs there are in this area for future research.

This study reviews the major data sources about arson and attempts to gain insight into the amount of arson committed annually in the United States. Moreover, it attempts to compare official and self-report estimates from varied sources to determine whether they provide similar estimates of arson. Some implications of the findings for future research are discussed.

Authors

• Patrick Jackson, Sonoma State University

• Shelby Foster, Sonoma State University