Offender profiling bottom-up approach

Question 1

The bottom up approach

Answer 1

British- David Canter
Does not begin with fixed typologies-data driven and emerges as the investigator scrutinises the details of particular a offence
Generate a picture of offenders characteristics , routine, and background through analysis of evidence- creates a unique profile

Question 2

Investigative psychology-statistical analysis

Answer 2

Detect patterns of behaviour across crime scenes.
A database is developed which acts as a baseline for comparison
Details of a crime can be matched to the database to see if it is the same offender
See their background and even if the crimes are linked.

Question 3

Investigative psychology-interpersonal coherence, time and place, forensic awareness

Answer 3

Interpersonal coherence- the way they behave at the scene may reflect their behaviour in every day situations. Dwyer- some rapists may be apologetic
Time and place -could indicate where they work and live
Forensic awareness -have they been involved with the police before?

Question 4

Geographic profiling

Answer 4

Uses location of linked crime scenes to make inferences about the base of an offender
Spatial consistency-stick to a certain area-centre of gravity becomes clear.
Circle theory -Canter-Pattern forms a circle around the offenders base. Can be 1 of 2:
Marauder-close proximity.
Commuter-travel distance from usual residence
Knowing this can gain a useful insight to the offence

Question 5

Strength-evidence for investigative psychology

Answer 5

David Canter and Rupert heritage-analysed 66 sexual assault cases and identified common behaviours: impersonal language and lack of reaction to victims.
Supports that people are consistent in their behaviour

Question 6

Evidence for geographical profiling

Answer 6

Canter and Lundrigan- 120 murder cases involving serial killers in US. Smallest space analysis revealed spatial consistency in behaviour
Location of each body created a centre of gravity -go in different directions but in the end this creates a circle
Base was in centre especially for marauders

Question 7

Limitation -Geographical is insufficient

Answer 7

May not be sufficient on its own-relies on the quality of data provided-
not always accurate;75% of crimes aren’t reported to the police .
Ainsworth -other factors are important in creating a profile-timing, age, experience
Jests this alone doesn’t lead to the successful capture of an offender