A typology of rural arsonists: characterising patterns of criminal behaviour

Abstract

Rural arsonists are responsible for a significant part of fires that cause environmental and community damage. Despite its prevalence in several countries, few studies have examined the characteristics and typologies of rural arsonists, contributing to the continuing lack of awareness of rural crime. Therefore, this study identifies the discriminant characteristics of rural arsonists and develops a typology of the criminal patterns associated with this rural crime. For this purpose, the sociodemographic and psychosocial characteristics, criminal behaviour and crime scene information of 450 rural arsonists’ criminal records were analysed. Findings indicate that 61% of rural arsonists had mental health and alcohol problems. However, compared to previous literature, most were older adults (M = 45.64; SD = 16.02), had no criminal record (66%) and were employed (54%). By focusing on overcoming the limitations of previous typologies, the current one has been improved conceptually and methodologically, resulting in the classification of rural arsonists into three groups: Expressive–Mental Health Problems (39%), Expressive–Alcohol Consumption (38%), and Instrumental–Socially Adjusted (23%). This study enhances the comprehension of rural crime and establishes the groundwork for future research in the field by increasing knowledge of the characteristics of Portuguese rural arsonists and assisting criminal investigations.