Journey to Rape - Geographic Distance and the Rapist's Method of Approaching the Victim

• NCJ Number: 106009
• Journal: Journal of Police Science and Administration Volume: 15 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1987) Pages: 129-136
• Author(s): J L LeBeau
• Date Published: 1987
• Length: 8 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Using data on 320 rapes reported to the San Diego Police Department between 1971 and 1975, this exploratory study examined the distance traveled by the offender, his approach to the victim, the number of rapes committed, and the possible relation among these variables.

Abstract

Serial offenders used kidnap and illegal entry methods of approach in 80 percent of cases, as compared to 40 percent for single offenders. Single rape offenders were more likely to be known to the victim than were serial offenders and were more likely to use confidence approaches (offering a ride, meeting at party or public place). Both offender types traveled the shortest distance when using the illegal entry approach. Serial offenders traveled the second shortest mean distance to commit kidnap-attack rapes, while single offenders traveled the second shortest distance when the victim was approached at a bar or party. Method of approach was clearly a more significant contributor to rape travel distance than was offender type. 6 tables and 31 references.