As Salem arson investigation continues, state launches arsonist registry

As Salem arson investigation continues, state launches arsonist registry

By MONICA SEALS mseals@morningsentinel.com   SALEM — As the investigation into a suspected arson in Salem is ongoing, the State of Illinois has finally launched an arsonist registration, enacted by statute nearly 20 years ago.  However, Salem Fire Protection District Chief James Cerny says that it is difficult to convict an arson suspect, as much of the evidence is circumstantial and there are rarely witnesses.  In 2004, then-governor Rod Blagoj…