FIRE-FIGHTERS who deliberately start fires can be caught between a hero and villain role in their minds, according to a Bunbury psychologist.
The comments come after Bunbury volunteer fire-fighter Joshua Akers was charged with allegedly lighting three fires at the Bunbury Forum shopping centre on Sunday.
South West Detectives Senior Constable Gareth Reed told the Bunbury Mail Mr Akers lit the fires to prompt an emergency service call out.
Gibson-Princi Therapy Centre psychologist Daniella Princi said she could not comment on an individual case, but research had shown fire-fighters who deliberately start fires “weave back and forth between hero and villain”.
“Even if they know how dangerous fire can be, they might have other problems that involve difficulty with impulse control,” Ms Princi said.
“The welfare of others is often not a consideration, as the act itself holds its own purpose and function.”
Edith Cowan University criminologist Doctor Natalie Gately said most arsonists were not interested in hurting anyone else – it was “about making a statement.”
“It’s just that thing about the lights, bells, whistles and being the hero that saves everyone like in the stories,” Dr Gately said.
It is alleged the 18-year-old from Withers lit a fire at the rear of Eagle Boys on Sandridge Road, causing damage to the store.
The Sandridge Village Fish and Chips store was also damaged and a bin at the rear of KFC was destroyed.
Mr Akers was charged with three counts of a breach of duty.
Senior Constable Reed said while the damage bill was not significant, it had unlimited potential to wreak havoc.
“As we are talking about commercial premises, there was potential for millions of dollars worth of damage to be caused,” Senior Constable Reed said.
In the Bunbury Magistrates Court on Monday, Bunbury Police prosecutor acting Sergeant Darren Grigson requested Mr Akers not be allowed to participate in work for the Department of Fire and Emergency Services.
Bail was granted on that condition with a $2000 surety.
Appearing as duty lawyer, Fiona Walsh told the court Mr Akers was employed by a business at Bunbury Forum and had no criminal record.
A Department of Fire and Emergency Services spokesperson confirmed Mr Akers had been stood down pending a result from court.
He has been serving in the local volunteer fire service since February this year.
Mr Akers will reappear on October 13.