West Virginia fire departments can make arrests after state lawmakers passed a bill last March, and some cities like Charleston have taken advantage. City council adopted the measure in May and only for the fire marshals from each department can arrest someone. Charleston Fire Department Fire Marshal Richard Symns told WCHS TV it helps with investigations, and it’s a way to lighten the load of the city’s police department. Under state code, fire marshals who complete 170 hours of training are allowed to make arrests for a list of reasons, including someone disobeying orders at a fire, or violating arson or explosives laws.