U.S. Sen. Bob Casey came to Coatesville yesterday to assure residents they weren't alone in the fight to hunt down those responsible for an arson spree that has left 20 families homeless and caused residents to live in fear.

"I'm not going to do a lot of talking today . . . I'm here to learn," Casey said before going on a tour of Fleetwood Street where 15 row homes were destroyed in an arson related fire. Casey told a gathering of reporters and city officials inside City Hall that he sent a letter to newly-appointed U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder asking for more investigative assistance for Coatesville. "He's making that determination now," he said.

The Chester County Arson Task Force, composed of city, county, state, FBI and ATF law enforcement officials, is already in place. The task force has set up a $20,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the fires. The number to call is 484-356-6109.

"We're doing everything we possibly can to bring every resource possible to the table," Mark Potter, ATF agent in charge for the Philadelphia region, who attended the news conference along with state police Capt. Brenda Bernot city fire Capt. Jay Abel, and city Police Chief William Matthews.

"I know sometimes it seems like nothing is being done. But, I can assure you no rock has gone unturned, no rug has not been looked under," Matthews aid.

When Casey asked city officials what they thought was needed, the only council member to speak of was Patsy Ray. She said that the government should help rebuild the homes destroyed. She also suggested that renters should be provided a place to live rent free for one year. "These people lost everything. It takes about a year and a half to recover she said.

Council members Karen Jorgenson, Kareem Johnson, Kurt Schenk and council President Marty Eggleston attended the news conference.

City Manager Harry Walker said the city and outside law enforcement agencies were doing all that was possible. "We will do whatever it takes to bring those responsible to justice," he said.