Crime scene as a source of information in the process of profiling the unknown perpetrator of homicide

Abstract

This study is about the crime scene as a valuable source of information about modus operandi, motives and characteristics of the perpetrator of the homicide crime. Based on Polish and foreign literature, the author made attempts to present various concepts of the perception of the crime scene in the criminal profiling process, as well as to indicate the key elements of the behavior of the perpetrator of the homicide resulting from the manner of proceeding, which can be interpreted from the crime scene. The study also presents the basic assumptions regarding the construction of criminal profiles of unknown perpetrators of homicides, with particular emphasis on the dichotomous concept of division into organised and disorganised perpetrators and the possibility of making other conclusions as to the psychophysical characteristics of the perpetrators of homicides. Thus, it is a form of universal presentation of the problem and may be of interest, in particular, to law practitioners.