NCJ Number
131585
Date Published
1991
Length
143 pages
Annotation
This manual describes investigative techniques related to destructive cults and underground groups. The groups described in this manual are characterized by a highly charged devotion to a charismatic leader or symbol; they operate unethically or illegally using coercion, mind control, and other manipulative techniques.
Abstract
Both "live-in" and "live-away" cults are vertically organized; only the cult leader and a few advisers are cognizant of the full range of the group's activities and finances. Investigators can use the cult's own materials, particularly pamphlets, books, audio and videotapes, to find out its level of organization, exact name, address, phone number, affiliates, and philosophy; any accompanying photographs are also useful. An investigator can obtain information on the cult's financial situation from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), State tax records, motor vehicles records, county property records, and municipal records. An investigator needs to develop information on the charismatic leader including his given name, address, date of birth, social security number, and marital status. Research into the cult must also cover its recruitment techniques, victim profiles, and methods of indoctrination. Intensive investigation and infiltration techniques that can be employed against cults can involve mail and telephone contacts, personal infiltration, searches of garbage, debriefs of former members, car-to-car and foot surveillance, stakeouts, and report writing. An investigator may discover crimes committed by cult members including fraud, petty crimes, prostitution, drug-related offenses, and violent crimes. Other resources available to investigators include libraries, newspapers and magazines, databases, books, and sources available under the Freedom of Information Act. Special problems related to investigations of destructive occult and satanic groups are outlined.