7/9/13 New registry won't be much help in ongoing Wooster arson investigation, police chief says
By Nick Sabo
July 9, 2013
341
SUMMARY: Arson registry aimed at ID-ing potention suspects
A new registry aimed at tracking convicted arsonists isnt likely to help in an ongoing investigation into suspicious fires in Wooster.
Wooster Police Chief Matt Fisher said the new law, which went into effect July 1, wont have much impact on an ongoing investigation into fires ruled to be arson that occurred on the citys southeast end earlier this year.
I cant say whether it would have hindered or helped us right now because the registry is so new, Fisher said. We do everything in our power to investigate and bring these incidents to closure. For me to say it would have helped is pure speculation.
The registry was signed into law in December 2012 by Governor John Kasich. It requires anyone convicted of arson, aggravated arson, or an arson related offense to register with the sheriff of their county of residence on an annual basis. The offender must register every year for life. The offender must pay a $50 registration fee when registering for the first time, and $25 annually after that.
The registry is part of the Ohio Law Enforcement Gateway (OHLEG) and is only accessible to law enforcement and fire investigators.
Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine said the registry will allow investigators to look at an arson scene and quickly determine if any convicted arsonists live nearby.
Wooster has seen at least 11 fires believed to be arson this year. One of the fires resulted in a 25 year old Nold Avenue woman being seriously injured. A 22-year-old man is charged with deliberately setting the fire. The fire is believed to be a one time event and not tied to other fires in Wooster this year.
In 2007, several fires believed to be arson culminated in a Buckeye Street fire that resulted in the death of a 20-year-old man. William Adams, who was then 19, was arrested and convicted of aggravated arson and murder.
Fisher said he feels the law could be helpful in investigating arson, but noted it will take time for the registry to be effective.
I think it will take time to build the database. You have to remember that this just gives investigators a starting point, Fisher said. It should be useful when you have no suspects, no witnesses, and you see that someone (previously convicted of arson) moves in. It doesnt necessarily link them to the crime, but it is a place to start.
