Low risk, minimum custody status inmates in California may be eligible to serve all or part of their incarceration as a California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) employee. The program is known as the Conservation (Fire) Camp Program. Acceptance into the program is highly sought after by qualifying inmates. The Camp Program serves as a rehabilitation program with each camp offering rehabilitative and educational services as well as learning real world skills. There are Camp Programs in 25 counties across California.
Typically, inmates accepted into this program support California firefighters throughout the state. This inmate workforce performs critical support tasks in fire control. Acceptance into this coveted position requires that the inmate have eight years or less remaining on their sentence, is physically fit and healthy, and does not have a disqualifying conviction. Among the disqualifying convictions is (obviously) arson.
A San Bernardino man, who was convicted of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, was one of the fortunate inmates who was selected for this program. Sadly, he is now charged with starting fires while working as an apparatus engineer for CAL FIRE. This unfortunate event should not reflect on the Camp Program, but nevertheless, some are questioning whether the program remains viable.
The suspect is accused of starting five brush fires in Sonoma County. Thankfully, the fires burned less than an acre. The charges were enhanced by his prior gross vehicular manslaughter felony and because the fires were set during a state of emergency. An enhanced charge means that he faces harsher penalties and a possible longer sentence
While incarcerated, the suspect worked on a handcrew. After his release, he enrolled in a training and certification program for former Camp Program inmates. This program qualified him for an entry-level job with CAL FIRE. He rose through the ranks, and he was anticipating a promotion to captain.
The suspect told reporters he is completely innocent. He professes utter bewilderment at the accusation and believes the charges will be dropped.
About 15% of California fires are started by arsonist according to CAL FIRE. And of those fires, a small portion are started by those who work as firefighters. According to the data, more than 100 firefighters in the US are arrested for arson each year. What psychological or other reasons that firefighters start fires is not well understood.
Arson is a serious offense which threatens life and property. Arson is almost always charged as a felony and can result in a lengthy prison sentence. Even a simple arson, such as carelessly burning your own personal property can turn into an arson offense. If you have been charged with arson, it is important to consult an arson defense attorney immediately.
Orange County criminal defense attorney William Weinberg has successfully defended many individuals accused of arson. He is available for a free consultation to discuss your arson charge or any other crime of which you have been accused. You may contact him by calling his Irvine office at 949-474-8008 or by emailing him at bill@williamweinberg.com.