Ishaan Deepak Joshi, MIT-WPU Faculty of Law
ABSTRACT
A series of investigative techniques are employed to determine features of criminal offenders whose identities are unknown. Such profiling relies on the premise that the mannerisms and personality of an individual influence everyday behaviors, also including acts of the criminal nature. The evaluation of evidence at a crime scene allows a trained profiler to link it to recorded behaviors and attributes of the personality from crimes committed in the past by criminals who have demonstrated similar traits. Utilizing available information and analyzing similarities helps create a description of what investigators should look for in a suspect in terms of character. The principles of criminal profiling, though seemingly valid prima facie, in practice; the technique development and methods of locating suspects have been shrouded in controversy. This research article aims to analyze the various approaches taken towards criminal profiling; their usages and shortcomings on the field. The analysis of the same would help profilers and investigators to have a balanced approach, while applying the best practices in every unique circumstance.
