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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.

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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.)

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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!

If you enjoyed the episode, give us 5 stars, hit the follow button, and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you are listening in from.

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Instagram: @infocus_podcast
LinkedIn: INFOCUS podcast
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