WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) today sent a letter to Eric Holder, Attorney General of the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), requesting that DOJ take any additional steps possible to help Coatesville stop a string of arsons. It has been reported that there have been 18 fires, all believed to be arson, in Coatesville since 2009 began.
“It is clear that despite support from the federal and state levels, local law enforcement and first responder resources are stretched thin and community residents are fearful and frustrated,” Senator Casey wrote.
Senator Casey went on to write, “I ask that your Department take any additional steps possible to help Coatesville halt the spate of fires, identify and prosecute the arson perpetrators and recover from the resulting damage. Specifically, I request that you direct any available discretionary funding and ATF or other federal law enforcement resources to support Coatesville’s efforts.”
Just last month, city officials in Coatesville declared a state of emergency after a blaze struck 15 row houses, forcing as many as 50 people from their homes. A previous fire, in late 2008, caused the death of an 83-year-old woman.
A copy of the letter is attached.
Dear Mr. Attorney General:
I am pleased to learn that investigators from the Department of Justice’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) are on the scene responding to and investigating a surge in arson fires that is terrorizing the community of Coatesville, Pennsylvania. Thank you for your Department’s prompt response to this dangerous situation.
It has been reported that there have been 18 fires in Coatesville since the beginning of 2009. Just last month, city officials declared a state of emergency after a blaze struck 15 row houses, forcing as many as 50 people from their homes. A previous fire, in late 2008, caused the death of an 83-year-old woman. My office has been in contact with local officials, victims and other members of the community over the last few weeks. It is clear that despite support from the federal and state levels, local law enforcement and first responder resources are stretched thin and community residents are fearful and frustrated.
Therefore, I ask that your Department take any additional steps possible to help Coatesville halt the spate of fires, identify and prosecute the arson perpetrators and recover from the resulting damage. Specifically, I request that you direct any available discretionary funding and ATF or other federal law enforcement resources to support Coatesville’s efforts.
With support from your Department and from state agencies, I am confident that we can end this community’s nightmare and restore a greater level of safety and stability for its citizens.
I look forward to your prompt response on this urgent matter and our continued work together.
Sincerely,
Robert P. Casey Jr.
United States Senator
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