Nearly 30 arrests for deliberate fires: an expert describes pyromania
Law enforcement arrested roughly thirty suspects linked to vegetation fires. A forensic psychiatry specialist explains the mechanisms of this rare disorder.
Nearly 30 arrests for deliberate fires: an expert describes pyromania
Authorities carried out the arrest of approximately thirty suspects over the weekend, accused of lighting vegetation fires. This wave of arrests coincides with the emergency services' efforts to combat several incidents, including one of unusual scale near Paris.
In an analysis broadcast by franceinfo, Laurent Layet, psychiatrist approved by the highest judicial authority in France, carefully distinguishes arsonists from other types of fire-setters. The latter may be motivated by greed, spite, the desire to destroy evidence, or may be under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The specialist estimates that true pyromaniacs represent fewer than one-twentieth of all arsonists. There would be several hundred of them across the country. Their particularity: fire is their sole and unique motivation. No other motive drives them to act.
This condition is classified as a mental disorder in its own right. The typical behaviour follows an identifiable cycle. First, the individual experiences increasing internal anxiety. Then, they develop an obsessional fascination with flames. The moment of ignition provides immediate satisfaction, even a sense of relief. This positive state rapidly declines afterwards.
From a psychological perspective, these perpetrators generally present with poorly structured personalities. They struggle to control their impulses and to manage their feelings. Social withdrawal is common. Their interest in fire often dates back to childhood or adolescence. Alcohol consumption can furthermore facilitate the carrying out of the act, notably at the end of the day.
The modus operandi reveals a certain method. The suspects choose isolated and difficult to access locations, which they have often visited beforehand. They flee the area once the fire is well established, to escape any arrest. They avoid places that are too frequently visited or monitored.
As for guilt, it remains low. Some may feel regret if justice catches up with them, but few display genuine awareness of their disorder. This lack of perspective does not generally prevent them from reoffending.
Source: France Info