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In Episode 19 hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens welcome special guest Investigator Tom Beers, a firefighter and fire investigator with the Cleveland Heights Fire Department and board member for the Ohio Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators. The episode kicks off with a delightfully entertaining discussion about regional accents and dialect differences, from the peculiarities of Midwestern pronunciations to the great "pop vs. soda" debate!
The conversation takes an exciting turn as Tom shares his journey from aspiring lawyer to firefighter, sparked by a chance encounter during a college EMS ride-along. He describes his fascinating path through military service, the Dayton Fire Academy, and eventually to Cleveland Heights, where he's served for over 20 years. Tom then dives into his groundbreaking work drafting new Ohio legislation for fire investigators' firearms qualifications, updating laws that hadn't been touched since 1953!
The hosts and Tom share their experience at the Ohio conference, where Scott and Chasity taught a packed session on AI applications in fire investigation. They also geek out over cutting-edge forensic technology, including an impressive demonstration of a new UV flashlight for detecting ignitable liquids. A highlight of their Ohio visit was an impromptu two-hour tour of the state's forensic lab, which left them thoroughly impressed with the facility's 7-10 day turnaround times and sophisticated capabilities.
The episode wraps up with heartwarming stories of podcast fans they met at the conference, a review of the Evidence Collection Technician (ECT) certification process, and their signature segment "Can You Use It in a Sentence?" where Tom challenges listeners with the term "inductive reasoning." From accents to arson investigation, this episode perfectly blends education, entertainment, and the passion these investigators bring to their field.
Be sure to catch the next episode in two weeks, where they'll unpack the meaning of "inductive reasoning" and continue bringing you the latest insights into fire investigation!Thank you for listening!
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In this episode of In Focus Fire, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens welcome Deputy Attorney General Lauren Guber for the debut of their new recurring segment "From the Legal Desk." Fresh from teaching a courtroom testimony class, Lauren shares invaluable insights from her unique perspective as a prosecutor, offering a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of fire investigation and legal proceedings.
The conversation delves deep into crucial topics like confirmation bias in fire investigations, the importance of proper documentation, and the delicate balance investigators must maintain when testifying in court. Lauren, drawing from her extensive experience as both a Los Angeles County District Attorney and now Deputy Attorney General, provides enlightening examples of courtroom scenarios and expert witness testimonies, including a compelling story about an expert witness who cited "the internet" as their research source.
The episode takes an interesting turn as Lauren discusses her journey from aspiring medical student to a prosecutor, revealing how a chance encounter with fire investigation cases involving drug labs led to her current expertise in arson prosecution. The hosts also announce Lauren's upcoming presentation at the California Conference of Arson Investigators in February 2025, where she'll be discussing the evolution of butane honey oil labs from residential settings to large-scale warehouse operations.
The discussion concludes with a valuable segment on the proper use of AI in report writing, addressing common misconceptions and providing practical guidance for investigators. The hosts introduce their traditional word segment, with Lauren offering "indicia" as a term that bridges the gap between law enforcement and fire investigation vocabularies. This episode serves as an essential resource for fire investigators, offering unique insights into the legal aspects of their profession while maintaining an engaging and educational tone throughout.Thank you for listening!
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Part two of our riveting conversation with Investigator Buckingham delivers the long-awaited conclusion to our courtroom cliffhanger. After a deadlocked jury and a surprising nine-to-three split for acquittal on the aggravated arson charge, the prosecution regroups with amended charges. Buckingham walks us through the intense second trial, complete with expert witness drama, mental health defense tactics, and an unexpected courtroom revelation that nearly derailed the entire case. Through persistence and masterful testimony techniques, justice is finally secured for the community affected by this devastating fire.
The episode takes an authentic turn as our hosts dive into a candid discussion about ADHD, anxiety, and panic attacks in the fire investigation field. Scott and Chasity share personal insights about managing these challenges while maintaining professional excellence, offering a rare glimpse into the human side of fire investigation.
In our WTF (We Train Frequently) segment, we highlight an incredible opportunity for fire investigators: free training at the National Fire Academy. Mark your calendars for the application period opening March 15th through April 15th, 2025, for the highly sought-after Fire Investigation Essentials course (R07).
The episode wraps up with our popular "Can You Use It in a Sentence?" segment, featuring the word "deflagration" and teasing a new mystery abbreviation (ILR) for next time. Whether you're a seasoned investigator or new to the field, this episode offers the perfect blend of technical knowledge, real-world experience, and professional growth insights.Thank you for listening!
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In this episode, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens welcome Investigator Justin Buckingham, a Battalion Chief and fire investigator with over 27 years of fire service experience. Recording from the California Conference of Arson Investigators' 70th-anniversary seminar, Justin shares the first part of a compelling case study about the Hopkins Fire that occurred in September 2021.
The case begins with Justin responding to what started as a small quarter-acre vegetation fire that quickly grew to consume 257 acres, destroying 34 houses and over 50 total structures. As the investigation unfolds, Justin details the methodical process of determining the fire's origin, using techniques like examining backing and advancing indicators, and employing tools like the "bulb syringe" for detailed examination of the scene. Surveillance footage from a nearby trucking yard proved crucial, showing a suspect with distinctive features making multiple trips to the area before the fire started.
Through a series of fortunate circumstances, including a chance encounter with the suspect immediately after reviewing the footage, law enforcement was able to identify and apprehend the suspect, Devin Johnson. The investigation led to multiple interviews and a complex legal process spanning several years, complicated by mental competency hearings and changes of venue. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, with the jury deliberating after a challenging trial presentation.
The hosts also discuss upcoming training events, including seminars in Idaho, Mississippi, and Ohio where they will be presenting on artificial intelligence in fire investigation. The episode concludes with their regular segment reviewing a five-star listener review and introducing the word "deflagration" for the next episode's vocabulary discussion.
(To be continued in Episode 17 for the conclusion of the Hopkins Fire case.)Thank you for listening!
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In this episode of Fire Investigation INFOCUS, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens dive deep into the world of fire investigation myths and legends. With decades of experience between them (mostly Scott haha), they unravel long-held misconceptions and shed light on how the field has evolved. From the infamous myths about alligatoring to the truth about holes in floors, listeners are treated to an insider's look at the stories behind these debunked theories.
The hosts explore how changing building materials and furnishings have transformed fire behavior, challenging investigators to adapt their methods. They discuss the importance of evidence collection, and the role of AI in investigations, and even touch on the challenges of marathon training. With a mix of serious discussion and playful banter, Scott and Chasity keep listeners engaged while delivering valuable insights into the field.
The episode wraps up with a look at upcoming training opportunities and a tease about AI technology in fire investigation. Whether you're a seasoned investigator or simply curious about the field, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the ever-evolving world of fire investigation. Don't miss the hosts' challenge to listeners to properly use "spalling" in a sentence - it might just save you from a kick in the nose!Thank you for listening!
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In episode 14 of the Fire Investigation INFOCUS Podcast. They begin by discussing recent events, including Chasity getting a new Maine Coon kitten named Furiosa. Scott mentions completing fire investigation training series in San Diego and starting another in Orange County.
The hosts then dive into the main topic - an overview of key fire investigation standards and a new standard that was recently released. They discuss NFPA 921 (Guide for Fire and Explosion Investigations), NFPA 1033 (Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Investigator), and the new NFPA 1321 (Standard for Fire Investigation Units). Scott explains that 1321 is a standard, not just a guide, meaning fire investigation units will be required to follow it. He highlights some key requirements from 1321 around documentation, health and safety, training, and more. The hosts discuss how this new standard may impact both public and private sector fire investigators.
Scott also shares insights on jury instructions related to fire investigation cases in California, explaining how understanding these can help investigators prepare stronger cases. The hosts announce upcoming fire investigation conferences and training events, including ones they'll be teaching at in Ohio and California. They close by reading and awkwardly responding to some podcast reviews, thanking listeners for their support and engagement. The episode wraps up with a brief discussion of confirmation bias in fire investigation and a teaser to look into the definition of "FIU" (Fire Investigation Unit) from NFPA 1321 before the next episode.Thank you for listening!
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In episode 13 we have part 2 of Burning Down Bias with Investigator Brown. We delve into the intricacies of a complex trash fire investigation. Our hosts expertly dissect the case, examining crucial evidence including surveillance footage, witness testimonies, and the suspect's history. The discussion highlights the importance of thorough scene examination and the critical role of timeline analysis in fire investigations.
The episode takes an educational turn as we explore the science behind cigarette-initiated fires. Our hosts break down common misconceptions, discussing ignition timelines and the factors necessary for a smoldering cigarette to transition to flaming combustion. This segment showcases the vital role of scientific understanding in accurate fire cause determination.
We also get an insider's look at the legal proceedings following a fire investigation. The hosts share valuable insights on navigating preliminary hearings, addressing defense strategies, and the significance of presenting solid scientific evidence in court.
The discussion wraps up with an engaging segment on thermal inertia and its relevance to fire behavior, followed by an introduction to the concept of confirmation bias in investigations. This episode offers a perfect blend of real-world case analysis and practical fire investigation knowledge, making it a must-listen for both professionals and enthusiasts in the field.Thank you for listening!
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In this episode of "Fire Investigation in Focus," hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens dive deep into the intricate world of arson investigation with guest Investigator Caleb Brown. Caleb, a former commercial pilot turned fire investigator, brings a unique analytical perspective to the field. The episode centers around a fascinating case study involving a trash fire in an apartment complex, showcasing the meticulous process of fire investigation. Listeners are taken step-by-step through the investigative process, from examining cigarette butts to ruling out potential ignition sources. The discussion highlights the critical importance of avoiding bias, thoroughly documenting evidence, and leveraging scientific research to build a solid case. Caleb's journey from the cockpit to crime scenes offers intriguing insights into the diverse backgrounds that can contribute to effective fire investigation. They also touch on the challenges of working with district attorneys and the significance of clear, comprehensive reporting. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the science and art of fire investigation, offering a blend of technical knowledge, practical experience, and thought-provoking discussions on the pursuit of truth in arson cases. Don't miss part two, where the investigation continues to unfold!
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In this episode of Fire Investigation INFOCUS, hosts Scott and Chasity dive deep into the world of firefighter and fire investigator safety. They kick things off with a hilarious story about Chasity's Instagram followers mistaking an electrical arc photo for dead animal bones - talk about a shock!
The dynamic duo then welcomes Dr. Jeff Burgess to discuss groundbreaking research on firefighter cancer risk. Dr. Burgess breaks down the science behind PFAS chemicals and their potential health impacts. Scott even reveals his own surprising test results, adding a personal touch to this critical issue.
But wait, there's more! The hosts then turn up the heat with an in-depth look at an innovative new respirator called Clean Space. Tim Costa joins to explain how this high-tech device is revolutionizing safety for fire investigators. Scott shares his firsthand experience using Clean Space on a recent fire scene, praising its comfort and effectiveness.
Throughout the episode, Scott and Chassidy's banter keeps the energy high, cracking jokes about AI assistants and their own podcast milestones. They wrap things up with some word nerdery, diving into the fascinating world of "conchoidal fractures" in glass analysis.
With a perfect blend of crucial safety information and lighthearted fun, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in the fire investigation field. Don't forget to rate, review, and share to help spread this valuable knowledge!
Tim Costa- Clean Space
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 401-573-5341Thank you for listening!
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This episode of INFOCUS Podcast features hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens recording live in front of Scott's Investigation 1B class on their lunch break. The hosts dive into a range of topics starting with a discussion on recent cases and common misunderstandings in the field, such as the confusion between negative corpus and the process of elimination in report writing.
The episode takes an interactive turn as the hosts field questions from the students, covering topics like evidence collection, report writing, and the challenges faced by new investigators. Scott and Chasity share valuable insights on articulating findings, using AI for transcription, and the importance of mentorship in the field. They also debate the concept of "imposter syndrome" and how it affects investigators at various stages of their careers.
The conversation takes an interesting detour into the differences between public and private sector investigations, with Scott sharing his experience transitioning from public to private work. The hosts also discuss onboarding procedures for new investigators and the importance of preventative care in the profession.
As always, the episode concludes with their signature segment "Can You Use It in a Sentence?" featuring the word "stoichiometric" and teasing a new term, "concoidal." The hosts wrap up with a playful ad for Fire Department Coffee. This episode offers a unique blend of professional insights, student interaction, and the hosts' trademark humor, making it an engaging listen for both seasoned investigators and newcomers to the field.Thank you for listening!
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In this engaging episode of "INFOCUS Podcast," hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens dive into a wide range of topics relevant to fire investigators. They start by discussing recent teaching experiences and the evolving landscape of fire investigation education. The conversation then shifts to the challenges of maintaining focus and efficiency in their work, touching on the unique perspective their ADHD brings to the field.
The hosts address listener feedback and questions, particularly focusing on the use of AI in fire investigation. They share insights on new technologies, including the Clean Space respiratory protection system, emphasizing the importance of personal protective equipment on fire scenes. Scott and Chasity also discuss the increasing prevalence of lithium-ion battery fires and the safety concerns they present.
Mental health in the fire service is addressed, with the hosts acknowledging the challenges of burnout and the importance of having support systems. They announce upcoming training opportunities, including the California Conference of Arson Investigators' 70th anniversary event. The episode concludes with a discussion on exigent circumstances in fire investigation and introduces "stoichiometric" as the word to research for the next episode. Throughout, Scott and Chasitdy maintain their signature blend of professional insight and casual conversation, making complex topics accessible and engaging for their listeners.
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In this episode, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens discuss the complexities and nuances of fire investigations alongside special guest, Police Officer Russell. Officer Russell shares his extensive background in law enforcement, including his unique journey to becoming an arson detective. The episode covers a range of topics from the importance of interagency communication between fire investigators and law enforcement (the awkward first date) to insightful advice on managing fire scenes. They also recount a fascinating experience training fire/ police in Cambodia, highlighting cultural differences and the universal importance of effective fire investigation training.
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In this episode hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens delve into the frequently asked question: 'How do you become a fire investigator?' Joined by special guests Inspectigator Kate Rocha and Investigator Steve Hess, the discussion explores the various paths to entering the field of fire investigation, from traditional firefighting to unique alternative routes. Tune in for inspiring personal stories, insightful tips, and real-world experiences from both public and private sector fire investigators.
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In Episode 6 they welcome Fire Marshal Pesqueira, also known as 'The Inspectigator.' They discuss various aspects of the fire service industry, focusing on both fire prevention and investigation. Pesqueira shares her journey and the dual role she plays as a Fire Marshal and an adjunct instructor at Santa Ana College. The episode covers topics including the importance of fire alarm systems, the distinctions between smoke alarms and detectors, and the challenges faced by fire inspectors. She also talks about mentoring the next generation and the complexities of fire safety codes. The hosts and guest engage in a lively conversation filled with personal anecdotes and professional advice, making it an insightful and enjoyable episode for anyone interested in fire investigation and prevention.
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In this episode, Chasity and Scott have the author of Kirk's Fire Investigation as our guest. They discuss Dave Icove's background, including his early interest in fire investigation sparked by getting a fire prevention merit badge as a Boy Scout. Dave shares his experience working for the FBI in the 1980s doing arson profiling and analysis using an early AI system called VAX that could process news reports and other data. He talks about interviewing incarcerated serial arsonists and the Kirk's Fire Investigation book he co-authors.
Dave provides insights into modern AI capabilities like language models and using them ethically for research and analysis in fire investigation. The hosts discuss the need to teach younger generations about leveraging AI tools. They get Dave's perspective on the upcoming 9th edition of Kirk's Fire Investigation potentially including an AI chapter.
The show covers training events, listener feedback, fire investigation terminology like "statute of repose" and "truncated cone pattern", and the value of local fire investigation chapters and presenting at conferences to break into the training profession. Throughout, Dave shares his decades of experience in fire investigation.
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The guest on episode 4 was Investigator McCulloch, a fire captain and fire investigator, who shared his experience preparing for a jury trial involving a fire started by a transient person and causing fire damage to a concrete sidewalk. He detailed the challenges he faced, including the defense citing and questioning specifics from Kirk's Fire Investigation, like concrete discoloration caused by the fire, biases, and more. Ryan explained how he utilized AI to prepare for questioning on certain sections of NFPA 921 and emphasized the importance of paying attention to objections during his testimony. The hosts also covered Ryan's transition from working in fire suppression to becoming an investigator. The word of the day, "saponification," was defined and used in a sentence related to commercial kitchen fires, and a new "phrase" of the episode was given. The episode teased an interview with an author of Kirk's Fire Investigation for the next episode.
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In this episode, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens changed their format to answer listener questions and clarify the fundamentals of fire investigation for their growing audience spanning 21 countries. Chasity shared a personal story about fracturing her toe while trying to help a cat. The hosts go into explaining the systematic approach related to fire investigation, which involves following the scientific method to examine fire scenes in a consistent manner that can withstand legal challenges. They discussed the importance of properly conducting "dig outs" and "delayering" to remove debris and document evidence. They bring AI in to discuss if delayering is even a word and discover that the wide known term is actually "layer by layer". Report writing was highlighted as crucial for thoroughly documenting investigations. The hosts explained the roles of industry associations IAAI, the state chapters, and NAFI and the certifications they offer. Chasity shared an interesting case where she found a "million-dollar" piece. A new segment was introduced to explain unusual fire investigation terminology, tune in to find out the word for this week. Thank you all for listening! Keep the questions coming. Don't forget to Subscribe, Follow, Like, and Share! Those are all free ways to help us reach a broader audience and support the podcast.
Support INFOCUS podcast by purchasing Fire Dept Coffee using the hyperlink below!:
alnk.to/4fQ8u8E and use code INFOCUS for 10% off.
Upcoming training and resources:
In-depth analysis of NFPA 921 2024 edition webinar
https://www.llrmi.com/webinar-detail/?eventid=29715
New York Annual Spring Seminar
https://nyfireinvestigators.org/2024-spring-training/
Michigan Arson School
https://www.michiganiaai.org/upcoming-events
Nebraska IAAI 54th Annual Fire and Arson Conference
https://www.nebraskaiaai.org/training/Thank you for listening!
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Scott and Chasity discuss positive feedback from their first episode and meeting listeners at the IAAI-ITC conference in Las Vegas. Highlights from IAAI-ITC include record attendance, engaging training classes, and favorite events like The Sphere and Penn & Teller show.
The INFOCUS podcast has a new affiliate relationship with Fire Dept Coffee, use this link to support our podcast, https://alnk.to/4fQ8u8E with discount code ‘INFOCUS’ for 10% off.
Key training takeaways emphasize the importance of systematic investigation, recognizing fire damage may be worse away from an elevated origin, and how Chasity applied her training while unexpectedly teaching alongside expert Steve Carman.
Chasity shares a case study where her Molotov cocktail training allowed her to discover critical evidence initially missed in a church fire, underlining the value of continuing education. The hosts mention upcoming training opportunities such as conferences in Arkansas and Montana, free National Fire Academy courses, California's Fire Investigation Academy, and online resources like CFItrainer.net & DCARI.
In conclusion, Scott and Chasity stress the importance of having knowledgeable colleagues to consult on investigations. They give a shout-out to the CSI On Fire Podcast, tease an upcoming appearance on The Fire Break Podcast, and provide a link to referenced fire pattern studies below.
Instagram- @infocus_podcast
LinkedIn- INFOCUS Podcast
Fire Dept Coffee Link: https://alnk.to/4fQ8u8E and use code ‘INFOCUS’ for 10% off
Steve Carman Z-Factor Case Study- https://carmanfireinvestigations.com/publications/
Drop Box Link to Fire Pattern Case Studies- https://www.dropbox.com/sh/hi81lzzp8gfzs6o/AADklhX64TMRN2wCc4HQgTpHa?dl=0
National Fire Academy- https://www.usfa.fema.gov/nfa/
Free online training:
IAAI CFI Trainer- cfitrainer.net
DCARI Dane County Arson Response Initiative- dcariwi.org
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In this inaugural episode of the "Fire Investigation INFOCUS" podcast, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens introduce themselves and discuss their backgrounds in fire investigation.
Introductions:- Chasity Owens is 29 years old with a B.S. in Fire, Arson, and Explosion Investigation. She has nearly 6 years of experience on the private side and holds several certifications (IAAI-CFI, NAFI-CFEI, CVFI). She is also the newly elected Secretary of the California Conference of Arson Investigators (CCAI).
- Scott Kuhlman is a professional firefighter in Orange County, California with 30 years of experience. He has been in fire investigation for 25 years, working in both public and private sectors. He is the current President of CCAI.
Purpose of the podcast:
- To discuss fire investigation, provide education, and ignite curiosity about the field.
- To feature conversations with experts and individuals that offer insights to areas that affect the field of fire investigation.
Backgrounds and meeting:
- Chasity chose the private sector route to dive directly into investigations rather than spending years in firefighting first. Scott had a traditional public sector career.
- They met when Chasity was hired as a fire evidence technician at a private company where Scott worked part-time. They clicked professionally and Scott mentored Chasity.
Industry insights:
- Private sector investigations often go more in-depth on accidental fires than public sector ones, which typically stop if a fire is determined to be non-criminal to preserve the scene.
- Maintaining objectivity and focusing on facts is crucial, rather than succumbing to pressure to reach certain conclusions or speculation.
Training opportunities:
- The California Conference of Arson Investigators is holding its 70th Anniversary Seminar in San Luis Obispo from October 21-24, 2024.
- The Fresno City College Fire Investigator Academy offers a comprehensive 4-week program covering NFPA 1033 requirements from May 20 to June 14, 2024.
You can register now for both the above mentioned trainings at CCAI's website. (arson.org)The hosts also discuss the growing role of AI in fire investigations and touch on their shared experiences with ADHD. Throughout the episode, their passion for the field and their collaborative relationship shine through.
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