James A. Shinsky, IAAI-CFI, CFEI

Current Role

Jim is certified as a fire investigator by both the IAAI (IAAI-CFI) and National Association of Fire Investigators (NAFI) (NAFI-CFEI). He focuses on western Michigan and Indiana but also travels throughout the state. Jim has an extensive record in fire, explosion and fraud investigation and handles complex investigations and the litigation that comes with them. His many successes as an expert witness and his solid investigations have resulted in numerous successful verdicts for clients.

Service Areas

• Fire investigation, origin and cause
• Follow-up investigations of fire and fraud
• Evidence collection preservation
• Scene photography
• Interviewing
• Subrogation investigation

Experience

Prior to joining Rehmann, Jim served 25 years with the Michigan State Police. He headed the Investigative Resources Unit of the Fire Marshal Division and was responsible for development and delivery of statewide fire and fraud investigation training programs, investigator certifications and major case investigations.

When Jim joined Rehmann in 2003, he brought an extensive record in fire, explosion and fraud investigation to the team. His involvement in monitoring and strengthening National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) processes regarding fire investigations — is respected throughout the industry.

Jim has investigated more than 2,000 fires in his career. In addition, he has taught classes for the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI) and community college courses in law enforcement and fire science. He has testified as an expert in fire origin and cause determination in both criminal and civil courts, as well as provided testimony at depositions and before a federal grand jury.

Jim meets the current training requirements through continuing education courses current in the fire investigation industry.