Serial Killers

Serial Killers are notorious for the crimes they commit. A serial killer has a minimum of three to four victims with a “cooling off” period in between. The killer is usually a stranger to the victim; the murders will appear unconnected or random. The murders reflect a need to sadistically dominate the victim. The murder is rarely “for profit”, the motive is psychological, not material. The victim may have “symbolic” value for the killer; the method he uses may reveal this meaning. Killers will often choose victims who are vulnerable (Scott, 2003). There are three types of serial killers. There are the Thrill Seekers: they see it all as a game. They enjoy media attention, pursuit by the police and evading authorities. They may send a message with their killings, and keeps a record for their killings. They enjoy outsmarting law enforcement. There is also the Mission Oriented: Feel they are doing society a favor by getting rid of people, like prostitutes, or making a statement...