2003 computer system tracks arsonists

Without a way to keep an eye on known arsonists – how they set fires, where they live and other details of their histories – Maine had few resources to track them.

But in 2003, the state piloted the Bomb and Arson Tracking System.

BATS is a nationwide records management program created under the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in partnership with the State Fire Marshal’s Office.

BATS can be searched for information based on a name, the type of suspect fire, a location and other facts.

The system also provides access to active arson cases within the state and nation. It is an invaluable tool, State Fire Marshal John Dean said.

Before BATS went online, records were kept on paper cards, making searches for and connections with suspects difficult and communication between communities and law enforcement nearly impossible, he said.

“We can search much easier because it’s all computerized,” Dean said. “It’s also a good way for an investigator in Aroostook County to look at what’s going on in [another] county. They wouldn’t necessarily make a connection” before BATS.

Ashton Moores is an example. Without a computerized records management system, Moores fell through the cracks before 2003.

Not anymore, said Joe Thomas, Maine’s assistant fire marshal.

Now Moores is listed in BATS.

“I show two events, both from 2004,” Thomas said in an interview as he was checking on Moores’ status. “Both are open cases. I will tell you this much; they’re in different counties.

“That’s the value of this” computer program, he said. “We’re able to pull different circumstances together.”

Because the 2004 arson investigations involving Moores are active and unresolved, Thomas could not reveal any additional information about them, including their locations.