WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Congressman Adam Schiff (CA-29) and Congresswoman Mary Bono (CA-45) advanced their efforts to combat the horrific crime of arson during today's hearing, "Managing Arson" in the Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security Subcommittee. Joined by witnesses Fire Chief Tracy Pansini of the Burbank Fire Department and Fire Chief William Soqui of the Cathedral City Fire Department, Reps. Schiff and Bono pushed forward their legislation, The Managing Arson Through Criminal History (MATCH) Act of 2007, H.R. 1759. This legislation would establish a comprehensive nation-wide database to track convicted arsonists. The MATCH Act is expected to be considered in the House Judiciary Committee tomorrow.
“A quick and united response was immensely important in fighting the recent fires in Southern California, and now it is important for us to ensure that such a tragedy never strikes again,” said Schiff. “As a former federal prosecutor who handled arson cases among others, I believe that the national registry created by the MATCH Act and its notification requirements are important tools to prevent future acts of arson and assist in the investigation of arsons that have occurred.”
“I applaud the firefighters who dedicate their lives to defend public safety and to protect our homes, lives and wilderness areas. As we have unfortunately seen in California, arson is a crime with devastating and frightening results,” said Bono. “This legislation will give the fire and police officials the tools that they need to better monitor convicted arsonists and prevent unnecessary disaster.”
The MATCH Act, strongly supported by local law enforcement and fire authorities, would consolidate federal, state and local resources in combating arson. The legislation, mirrored after existing national criminal databases, would combat the unfortunate fact that approximately less than 20% of arson offenses result in an arrest and conviction, despite the fact that the majority of fires in the U.S. are the result of arson.
“Currently, we don’t have any vehicle to track arsonists on the national level or state level even though it is known that an individual that committed an act of arson is more likely to commit a future act,” said Burbank Fire Chief Tracy Pansini. “Generally, when it gets too hot for arsonists they move to other areas, but with a MATCH Act registry in place we would be better equipped to find a prolific arsonist. Congress needs to pass this important legislation now.”
“Congresswoman Bono's legislation takes necessary steps to help police and fire investigators combat the heinous crime of arson and thus will save lives, property and our environment," said Chief Bill Soqui of the Cathedral City Fire Department. “The MATCH Act will provide stronger links among public safety agencies, which will empower our police and fire investigators to prevent and penalize arson.”
The MATCH Act also establishes the Criminal Arsonist Management Assistance Program, which ensures that jurisdictions have the necessary means to manage and maintain their local registry.
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