NCJ Number
97421
Journal
Forensic Science International Volume: 27 Issue: 2 Dated: (February 1985) Pages: 135-144
Date Published
1985
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Seven brief news items cover the problem, recognition, and investigation of serial murders and other topics in this column for forensic scientists.
Abstract
Two articles discuss the problems involved in investigating serial murders. They note that although serial murders are increasing, it is often difficult to recognize that a murder case is one of a series. Cooperation among law enforcement investigators and forensic experts is advised to be necessary to connect murders by the same person. A discussion of the U.S. Justice Department's efforts to address the problem of serial murders cites (1) the development of the Violent Criminal Apprehension Program, which assists State and local law enforcement officials in profiling crimes and unknown offenders from case information; (2) the creation of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children to centralize information that can assist in identifying child homicide victims and patterns of child homicides; and (3) the development of Federal task forces to coordinate the investigation of serial murders committed by the same person in different States. A list of 31 serial murder cases is provided. Another item announces the publication and format of the 1984 edition of the International Bibliography of Forensic Sciences, an annual publication of INFORM. Other items describe forthcoming meetings of importance to forensic scientists from 1985 to 1987. One reference note is provided.