633.101 Hearings; investigations; investigatory powers of State Fire Marshal; costs of service and witness fees.

633.101 Hearings; investigations; investigatory powers of State Fire Marshal; costs of service and witness fees.

   (1) The State Fire Marshal may in his or her discretion take or cause to be taken the testimony on oath of all persons whom he or she believes to be cognizant of any facts in relation to matters under investigation.

   (2) If the State Fire Marshal shall be of the opinion that there is sufficient evidence to charge any person with an offense, he or she shall cause the arrest of such person and shall furnish to the prosecuting officer of any court having jurisdiction of said offense all information obtained by him or her, including a copy of all pertinent and material testimony taken, together with the names and addresses of all witnesses. In the conduct of such investigations, the fire marshal may request such assistance as may reasonably be given by such prosecuting officers and other local officials.

   (3) The fire marshal may summon and compel the attendance of witnesses before him or her to testify in relation to any manner which is, by the provisions of this chapter, a subject of inquiry and investigation, and he or she may require the production of any book, paper or document deemed pertinent thereto by him or her, and may seize furniture and other personal property to be held for evidence.

   (4) All persons so summoned and so testifying shall be entitled to the same witness fees and mileage as provided for witnesses testifying in the circuit courts of this state, and officers serving subpoenas or orders of the fire marshal shall be paid in like manner for like services in such courts, from the funds herein provided.

History. s. 7, ch. 20671, 1941; s. 9, ch. 65-216; s. 4, ch. 67-78; ss. 13, 35, ch. 69-106; s. 3, ch. 70-299; s. 426, ch. 97-102.

Note. Former s. 633.08.