Cops, Insurance Industry Bracing For Foreclosure Arsons?

In Denver, Colorado, CBS4-TV reports:

• Law enforcement and insurance companies are bracing for a rash of arsons and fire claims as some homeowners become more desperate amidst the sagging economy and struggling housing market. Some homeowners faced with foreclosure are torching their homes for insurance money, experts said. "It's unusual, but in today's society with what's going on it's becoming more and more popular thing to do," said Kevin Dougherty, the Teller County Sheriff.

• Dougherty said Karl Mann allegedly set fire to his house in Woodland Park the same day deputies posted an eviction notice on his door. Investigators said Mann packed his stuff, poured camping fuel in the basement and set fire to the home he'd lost in foreclosure.

Among the concerns in a state like Colorado is that these home arsons could lead to wildfires. For more, see Insurance Companies Brace For More Home Arsons.

Go here for the Channel 4 video, Home Arsons Increase Amid Foreclosures.

See also, Medill Reports: Fears of foreclosure sparking arson for quick insurance cash.

For other stories on fires & foreclosures, go here , go here , and go here. foreclosure arson xerox