◆ SpookStack

Douglas et al.: Criminal Profiling from Crime Scene Analysis THE CRIMINAL-PROFILE-GENERATING PROCESS Investigative profilers at the FBI’s Behavioral Science Unit (now part of the National Center for the Analysis of Violent Crime (NCAVC]) have been ana- lyzing crime scenes and generating criminal profiles since the 1970s. Our de- scription of the construction of profiles represents the off-site procedure as it is conducted at the NCAVC, as contrasted with an on-site procedure (Ressler et aJ., 1985). The criminal-profile-generating process is described as having five main stages, with a sixth stage or goal being the apprehension of a suspect (see Fig. 1). 1. Profiling Inputs Stage The profiling inputs stage begins the criminal-profile-generating process. Com- prehensive case materials are essential for accurate profiling. In homicide cases, the required information includes a complete synopsis of the crime and a de- scription of the crime scene, encompassing factors indigenous to that area to the time of the incident such as weather conditions and the political and social environment. Complete background information on the victim is also vital in homicide profiles. The data should cover domestic setting, employment, reputation, habits, fears. physical condition, personality, criminal history, family relationships, hobbies, and social conduct. Forensic information pertaining to the crime is also critical to the profiling process, including an autopsy report with toxicology/serology results, autopsy photographs, and photographs of the cleansed wounds. The report should also contain the medical examiner's findings and impressions regarding estimated time and cause of death, type of weapon, and suspected sequence of delivery of wounds. In addition to autopsy photographs, aerial photographs (if available and ap- propriate) and 8 x 10 color pictures of the crime scene are needed. Also useful are crime scene sketches showing distances, directions, and scale, as well as maps of the area (which may cross law enforcement jurisdiction boundaries). The profiler studies ail this background and evidence information, as well as all initial police reports. The data and photographs can reveal such significant elements as the level «f risk of the victim, the degree of control exhibited by the offender, the offender's emotional state, and his criminal sophistication. Information the profiler does nos want included in the case materials is that dealing with possible suspects. Such information may subconsciously prejudice the profiler and cause him or her to prepare a profile matching the suspect. 2. Decision Process Models Stage The decision process begins the organizing and arranging of the inputs into meaningful patterns. Seven key decision points, or models, differentiate and BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES & THE LAW 12