Behavior evidence analysis is an investigative task requiring an understanding of criminal investigation, criminal behavior, and crime scene reconstruction. There is no script telling the investigator what is or is not important to an investigation in real life. Every facet of a crime has to be considered important until proven otherwise. The victims deserve nothing less. It is an extremely difficult task, but it must be done competently and carefully. It is the duty of those in the criminal justice field to stand between predator and prey. You are starting to work on your cases. You review the facts for each case to identify the M.O. and the signature behaviors.

Instructions

Step 1: Download and read the following field investigative notes from each crime:

Serial Rapist

New Housing Development Arsonist

Mr. Ayer's Murder or Suicide

Step 2: Consider the following:

After reviewing each case, begin taking notes on each offender's M.O. and possible signature behaviors.

Be careful to distinguish the M.O. from the signature behaviors.

Label any M.O. behavior that is distinctive enough to personalize the offender as signature behavior.

Step 3 Take your notes of each case, and write a report (2-3 pages) addressing the following questions:
Reconstruct the crime using the evidence noted in the investigative notes, focusing on the who, what, when, why, and where. Keep in mind that every detail (even minor details) gives you insight into each case.

Can you identify the offenders M.O.?

Does the offender exhibit signature behaviors?

What is the likely explanation of the crime?

What could be some less likely explanations to this case that you may want to consider?