Nov 11, 2024  
Catalog 2024-2025 
    
Catalog 2024-2025

CJ 222 Profiling and Case Studies of Serial Killers


Lecture Hours: 3
Credits: 3

Analyzes a specific offender type, the serial killer. Includes historical perspective, motives, phases, and pre-cursory behaviors. Emphasizes the methodology of profiling, crime scene analysis, modus operandi, and offender signature as developed by the FBI Investigative Support Unit to assist law enforcement. Covers victimologies, VI-CAP, NCMEC, CASKU and Oregon H.I.T.S. systems. Uses individual case studies.

Corequisite: CJ 103  with criminal history clearance; or current professional in the field; or consent of instructor.
Student Learning Outcomes:
  1. Describe the individual characteristics and traits used for profiling serial killers.
  2. Identify “red flag” behaviors common with serial killer development.
  3. List the common motives for killing and the types of murders.
  4. Trace common network systems used to track serial killers.
  5. Describe the historical development of profiling serial killers.


Content Outline
  • Definitions of the Different Types of Killers
  • Motives for Killing
  • Related Oregon Revised Statutes
  • Historical Perspective
  • FBI Investigative Support Unit Development/Crime Classification Manual
  • Phases/Approaches of Serial Killers
  • Computer Networks
    • VI-CAP
    • NCMEC
    • CASKU
    • HITS
  • Behavioral Profile Summary
  • Emotional Toll on the Case Investigator
  • “Staging” and “Personation” at the Crime Scene
  • Modus Operandi and Signature Aspects of Violent Crime
  • Individual Case Studies