A Review of Weapon Choice in Violent and Sexual Crime

Paul Dawson,Alasdair M Goodwill

doi:10.4236/blr.2013.41003

Abstract

The concept that weapon choice and use may play a valuable role in differentiating between offenders is one that has not been well explored in current criminological or psychological thinking. The key aim of the current paper is to discuss the role of weapon choice and use in the application of offender profiling. Relevant research is identified though a literature review: initially considering a broad range of offences and then narrowing the focus on the specific case of violent and sexual offences. The review highlights several key findings which are then conceptualised through the offender profiling literature. In the discussion, the paper argues that there is considerable merit in the consideration of weapons within profiling violent and sexual offenders and concludes with proposed dimensions (planning and emotional use of the weapon) that illustrate the range of motivations that may aid in discriminating offenders.

Highlights

Weapon use in sexual and violent offences is a key consideration for police agencies and governments alike (Home Office, 2011)
A search of the literature was conducted to examine the issue of weapon use and offenders
Offenders using a weapon as a strategy for control or to facilitate the crime would be, it is hypothesised, have a longer and more extensive criminal career than the other weapon dimensions

Summary

Introduction

Weapon use in sexual and violent offences is a key consideration for police agencies and governments alike (Home Office, 2011). Prevalence data pertaining to weapon enabled crime exists for England and Wales through Home Office statistical releases utilising both public survey and police statistics. Prevalence data is collected in many countries (Catalano, 2005; Home Office, 2011; Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2004) and is valuable for understanding trends, developing policies or preventative strategies and the like. It reveals little on the motivations or whether weapon type has the ability to differentiate between offenders

Objectives

Discussion

Conclusion