NCJ Number
213787
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 54 Issue: 3 Dated: March 2006 Pages: 48-49,51,54
Date Published
March 2006
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This article focuses on the types of victim information that should be obtained in a homicide investigation and suggests ways to obtain it.
Abstract
In the event the victim has no identifying information on his/her body or at the crime location, the identification of the victim is the first priority. A procedure that can aid in identifying the victim is a canvass of people residing in the area where the body was found, using a close-up instant photo of the victim. Any identifying marks on the body discovered by the medical examiner should be compared with descriptions of persons reported missing. Fingerprints obtained by the medical examiner may also find a match in fingerprint records. In addition to identifying the victim, attention should be given to the type of injuries inflicted. The number and type of wounds can suggest whether the offender knew the victim and may have been motivated to kill him/her out of strong hostility. The location where the victim was found is also important. Whether the victim was killed at the location of the body or was transported there after being killed should be determined. Implications for the investigation of the victim's being found at various types of locations are discussed. The dynamics of the victim's interactions with family members and friends should also be determined, along with victim activities associated with his/her earning a living (occupation). Another area of investigation pertinent to the victim is his/her criminal history and other contacts with the criminal justice system. A complete and thorough investigation of the victim is the first step in a successful homicide investigation.