How do you profile a possible serial killer?

Answer 1

Criminal profiling is a combination of science, psychology, good old-fashion detective work and experience. At every crime scene there are clues. Not just fingerprints and hairs and fibers. More subtle hints that give detectives a glimpse into the perp's mindset. The Boston Strangler liked to pose the bodies in particular ways. These types of behaviors tell a story to the profiler. 'Posers' are usually trying to shock the police and the community, and in most cases they do. The Boston Strangler's unique calling card, in addition to the posing, was to tie an article of the victim's clothing or other personal objects around the women's necks since they were easily accessed because the murders took place within the victim's homes. Nylon stockings or the tie belt to a bathrobe are examples of this.

This is where the fine line between MO and signature is defined. The perp's MO is his method(s) that is needed to actually carry out the crime. But the signature is what the killer does to satisfy a psychological need that he has. This signature is like a mental fingerprint, unique to that individual killer. A serial killer's MO will usually change and evolve as he hones his technique. But his signature will not change. His psychological needs remain the same.

Former FBI Special Agent Gregg McCrary has written several books about profiling. They make for facinating reading and it will give you an idea of how profiling actually works.

Answer 2

Psychological trained professionals can profile serial killers on many things. Where they dumped or left the body, the background of the victims, the way in which they have murdered the victim and many other things.

Most serial killers' murders' are a reflection of their personality, past or even a traumatic event.

Answer 3

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (also known by the acronym FBI) often employs the services of an profiler. The process a profiler uses to find a serial killer often includes examining patterns and emotional schemas for clues about next actions that ultimately aid in capture.

Answer 4

Serial killers are a long process to catch. It involves many law enforcement agencies and the ones caught have been possible for noticeable mistakes.