NCJ Number
139365
Date Published
1991
Length
369 pages
Annotation
Based upon an analysis of the investigations of serial killings of females, notably the killings by John Norman Collins in Michigan between 1967 and 1969, this book identifies the pitfalls in such investigations and suggests investigative methods that have yielded positive results.
Abstract
Nine chapters focus on the circumstances and investigations of murders committed by John Collins in Michigan. Each chapter focuses on one of the murders. Topics discussed for each case include victim characteristics, the killer's method of operation, evidence, the investigation, and witnesses. Separate chapters present case studies of serial killers Johann Scharaditsch and Harold Sassak, Christopher Bernard Wilder, and Kenneth Erskine. Each of 14 chapters discusses aspects of a murder or attempted murder by the "Boston Strangler." Two other chapters profile the strangler and the investigative actions that led to his arrest. Seven chapters discuss the criminal career, investigation, and capture of serial killer Ted Bundy. A general summary focuses on the findings of the case studies, the modus operandi of serial killers, the criminal investigation, and the impact of police patrols on serial killings. 7 tables and appended investigative forms and procedures