The Investigations Unit is currently comprised of ten highly motivated investigators whom are certified Police Officers. These investigators are responsible for investigating multiple crimes including but not limited to, arson, explosives, environmental crimes, accidents involving fire department vehicles, bomb threats, assaults of fire officials, and habitual fire code violators.  We also have members whom are trained as bomb technicians whom make up the joint Norfolk Fire-Police Bomb Squad.  The unit is heavily involved in other areas of law enforcement as well, such as Homeland Security and a Bar Task Force.  This Bar Task Force conducts unannounced sweeps of local bars and clubs to insure that they are not overcrowded, and to enforce ABC violation, as well as gross fire code violations.  This has been a very effective measure in ensuring the safety of our citizens and visitors while they are enjoying our City.

Environmental Crime Unit  

Norfolk has been credited with having the first multi-agency Environmental Crimes Taskforce in Virginia, which is responsible for investigating and prosecuting any environmental or hazardous materials violations within and around the City.  Members of this team work closely with the EPA, DEQ and other federal regulating agencies.  The prosecutions of these crimes help clean up our environment, protect our citizens, and generate funds that help support the purchase of equipment for our investigations unit and for the Norfolk Hazardous Materials Team.

 The Norfolk Fire-Rescue Investigation Unit also possesses an accelerant K-9 in conjunction with the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms.  The handler of this K-9 is the Lieutenant that oversees “Fire Investigations”.

If you have any questions about this unit please contact Captain M. Talley at 757-664-6618 or at michael.talley@norfolk.gov.

Inspections

The Fire Marshal’s office inspects all structures and premises for the purposes of ascertaining and causing to be corrected any conditions liable to cause fire, contribute to the spread of fire, interfere with firefighting operations, endanger life or any violations of the provisions or intent of this code or any other ordinance affecting life safety.  Currently there are seven state certified fire inspectors in the Fire Marshal’s office.  Their warrant of appointment allows them to issue citations, summons, and warrants in accordance with local and state codes. 

If you have any questions about this unit please contact Captain Roger Burris at 757-664-6196 or at roger.burris@norfolk.gov