Criminal Profiling - Johnell W

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Grand Canyon University *

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320

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Law

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Jan 9, 2024

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docx

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Uploaded by SuperMorningSquirrel26

Johnell White Jr JUS 445 7/12/2023 Criminal Profiling Introduction Criminal profiling, a technique employed by the FBI since the late 1970s, has been instrumental in assisting law enforcement agencies in apprehending perpetrators of heinous crimes such as arson and serial homicides. By analyzing various types of collected data, profilers aim to construct a criminal profile that provides insights into the unknown suspect's characteristics, motivations, and potential behaviors. This essay explores a real-life example of a criminal who was apprehended using an FBI criminal profile and discusses the types of data useful in creating such profiles, as well as the disadvantages associated with their use. While criminal profiling has proved valuable in numerous cases, it is not without limitations and disadvantages. One significant limitation is the risk of confirmation bias, where profilers may be influenced by preconceived notions or existing stereotypes, leading to potential inaccuracies in the profile. Confirmation bias can occur when the profiler selectively interprets or seeks out information that confirms their initial assumptions, while disregarding contradictory evidence. This bias can inadvertently steer investigators in the wrong direction and hinder the identification of the true offender. Additionally, profiling is an iterative process, meaning that it evolves and develops over time as new information emerges. However, inaccuracies or errors in

the initial analysis can propagate throughout the investigation if not identified and rectified. These inaccuracies can lead investigators to focus on the wrong suspects or overlook crucial evidence that may have pointed towards a different profile. Another limitation of criminal profiling is the potential for overgeneralization. Profiling is based on patterns and characteristics observed in previous cases, but it is important to recognize that not all criminals fit neatly into predefined categories or exhibit consistent behavioral patterns. Each offender is unique, and there is a danger in assuming that all individuals who fit a certain profile are automatically guilty. Overreliance on profiling can result in the exclusion of potential suspects who do not fit the expected characteristics, leading to investigative tunnel vision. Moreover, the use of profiling evidence in courtrooms has been met with criticism. While profiling can provide valuable insights, it is not always considered a scientifically rigorous discipline. The admissibility of profiling evidence as expert testimony varies across jurisdictions, and its reliability and validity have been subject to scrutiny. Courts require expert testimony to meet certain standards of scientific rigor, including empirical validation and peer review. Profiling techniques and methodologies may not always meet these standards, which raises concerns about the validity and reliability of profiling evidence in legal proceedings. A notable real-life example where criminal profiling played a pivotal role is the case of the D.C. Sniper, also known as the Beltway Sniper. In 2002, John Allen Muhammad and Lee Boyd Malvo carried out a series of sniper attacks in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, instilling fear and panic in the community. During the investigation, the FBI utilized criminal profiling to aid in the identification and capture of the perpetrators. The FBI's criminal profile in the D.C. Sniper case suggested that the offenders were likely male, possessed proficiency in

marksmanship, and may have been motivated by personal grievances. This profile was based on the analysis of the crime scenes, ballistic evidence, and behavioral patterns exhibited by the offenders. The profile served as a guide for law enforcement, directing their focus towards individuals with military training and sniper expertise who might match the characteristics outlined in the profile. The accuracy of the FBI's criminal profile was demonstrated when Muhammad and Malvo were apprehended. John Allen Muhammad, a former Army veteran, fit the profile as a male with military training and marksmanship skills. The arrest of the snipers confirmed the effectiveness of the criminal profiling approach employed by the FBI in this case. The profile provided critical insights that guided the investigation, narrowing the suspect pool and aiding in the successful resolution of the case. The D.C. Sniper case highlights the value of criminal profiling as an investigative tool. By analyzing crime scene evidence and behavioral patterns, profilers can generate accurate descriptions and predictions about an unknown offender. In this case, the profile proved instrumental in focusing the investigation on individuals with specific characteristics, leading to the identification and capture of the perpetrators. The success of the D.C. Sniper investigation serves as a testament to the importance of criminal profiling in solving complex and high-profile cases. Despite the limitations, criminal profiling offers several advantages in assisting law enforcement agencies. Firstly, it provides a structured framework for analyzing complex cases, guiding investigators towards potential leads and narrowing down the suspect pool. Profiling can help prioritize investigative efforts and allocate resources effectively. Secondly, profiling can aid in creating public awareness and generating tips from the community, which can significantly

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