The utilization of forensic science and criminal profiling for capturing serial killers

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Criminal Psychology
• Homicide Investigation

Background:

• Popular media often overstates the role of forensic science and profiling in capturing serial killers.
• Significant advancements in forensic science and criminal psychology have occurred in recent decades.
• This paper examines factors contributing to the apprehension of serial offenders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze variables leading police to focus on specific suspects in serial killer investigations.
• To categorize the ways serial killers enter police awareness.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of a study involving 200 serial killers.
• Development of 12 distinct categories for how serial killers are identified by law enforcement.

Main Results:

• The majority of serial killers are captured through information provided by citizens and surviving victims.
• These contributions initiate police investigations culminating in arrests.
• Forensic science plays a crucial role in conviction but is less critical in initial suspect identification.

Conclusions:

• Citizen and victim input are primary drivers in serial killer apprehension.
• The impact of forensic science is more significant in the conviction phase than in the identification phase of investigations.