Investigating the Occult: Historical and Investigative Data (From Critical Issues in Criminal Investigation, Second Edition, P 157-173, 1988, Michael J Palmiotto, ed. -- See NCJ-109292)

• NCJ Number: 109299
• Author(s): R Black; J Rossi
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 17 pages
• Sale Source: Anderson Publishing Co
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

After discussing the history and background of witchcraft, sorcery, and magic, this paper discusses the types of evidence that should be collected at the scene of any suspected occult activity.

Abstract

Although practicing witchcraft, worshiping Satan, or experimenting with magic is not a crime, these practices may lead to crimes such as burglaries, particularly of churches; cemetery vandalism; animal killing; murder and assaults; and drug-related activity. Evidence which suggests occult-related crimes are animal mutilations, blood patterns which suggest torture, and drawn circles and pentagrams. If occult-related evidence is obtained at a crime scene, the entire scene should be recorded in detail. Measurements, sketches, photographs, and detailed notes are necessary for later interpretation of what occurred. The scene and the surrounding area should be searched. An officer investigating a scene containing circles and pentagrams should determine the direction in which the circle was drawn and the true position of the pentagram within the circle. This information will help in determining what type of group, good or evil, was involved in the crime. Additional evidence that may be discovered includes stolen church items and bones of small animals or birds. Burned plant material, animal skin, and charred flesh also constitute significant evidence. By documenting the scene and then checking reference material on the occult, the investigator may determine what occurred and the type of people involved. 12 notes and 29 references.