How Investigating A Serial Killer Actually Works

Greetings, I'm Mark Williams-Thomas, a former police detective who has transitioned into the world of unearthing secrets held by some of the most notorious and perilous criminals in the UK. Allow me to take you through the intricacies of how the world of crime operates and the riveting nuances that shape it.

The term "serial killer" is often thrown around casually, but its true definition pertains to an individual responsible for the deaths of three or more victims over a span of 30 days or longer. There's a certain mystique surrounding serial killers. They possess an aura, an air of respectability, as they can't possibly be serial killers without holding some semblance of status or reputation. Yes, they do exude a certain aura.

Do these individuals intimidate me? The answer is no. Fear doesn't govern me. I've delved into the intricacies of three specific serial killer cases with fervor and meticulous detail. These cases encompass the Yorkshire Ripper, Peter Sutcliffe; Angus Sinclair, linked to an estimated ten unsolved murders; and Peter Tobin. In my assessment, Peter Tobin is linked to a number of additional murders, two of which I have compellingly connected him to.

Profiling is a pivotal initial step in any murder investigation. It entails analyzing the crime scene, investigating the location of the incident, and then constructing a profile of the potential offender. I undertook a reevaluation of Peter Sutcliffe's case while he was incarcerated. This man, responsible for the deaths of 13 women and the attempted murders of eight more, became the focal point of my analysis. Previously diagnosed with schizophrenia, my investigation challenged this categorization. Through meticulous analysis, I argued that Sutcliffe's behavior exhibited psychopathic traits rather than schizophrenia. It's imperative that we carefully label individuals, not resorting to blanket terms such as "narcissistic," "psychopath," or "schizophrenic."

Serial killers, such as Ted Bundy, often exaggerate their involvement in crimes. This may stem from a desire to bolster their ego or a genuine belief in their self-proclaimed notoriety. Serial killers tend to distort reality constantly, a necessary coping mechanism to justify their actions and evade detection.

Evidence is my lodestar in investigations. Every killer carries a trace of narcissism within them. The traits we commonly associate with serial killers, such as psychopathy and narcissism, can be present in ordinary individuals as well. These traits don't inherently drive someone to become a murderer. Thus, identifying a potential suspect leads to the pursuit of concrete evidence, encompassing forensic clues, CCTV footage, and other external factors. Gaining insight into the victim's life is vital, understanding their daily activities, interactions, and routines. Serial killers may revisit crime scenes, a behavior exhibited by Peter Sutcliffe, who returned to a victim's murder site to retrieve evidence.

Modern technology, such as listening devices, phone intercepts, and trackers, plays an integral role in investigations. Though I operate within legal confines, certain methods are employed to gather essential information. I send decoy packages, plant tracking devices in parcels, and even employ listening devices when necessary. Social media contributes significantly, as it has become an integral part of people's lives, offering insights into their daily activities and connections.

Serial killers often distance themselves from crime scenes to evade detection. However, the lack of a national database for unsolved murders hampers comprehensive investigations, as crimes in different regions often remain isolated. This gap can allow serial killers to continue their activities undetected.

Serial killers occasionally taunt law enforcement, prompting misguided investigations and diversions. Distractions, such as hoax letters, can lead investigators astray, compromising the focus of an inquiry. The absence of a definitive database for unsolved murders exacerbates the risk of these diversions.

Arresting a serial killer follows the same protocol as any other arrest. The key is amassing sufficient evidence to justify an arrest and creating a situation that secures the most evidence with minimal disturbance. The worst outcome is an unsuccessful arrest, as the suspect may evade capture, leaving justice unattained.

Serial killers seldom confess willingly. In some cases, they may admit guilt when confronted with overwhelming evidence or under circumstances where conviction seems inevitable. I've conducted numerous interviews with offenders, relying on various techniques to elicit information. The process requires skill and adaptability, guiding suspects through a conversational dance that leads them toward revealing the truth.

False imprisonment often arises when investigators become fixated on a single hypothesis and use selective evidence to support their claims. Such instances highlight the pitfalls of our justice system and underscore the need for careful examination of all available evidence.

Serial killers may continue their activities for decades before getting caught, and they might only be apprehended for a fraction of their crimes. The complex interplay between investigative methods, criminal psychology, and societal factors contributes to the enthralling enigma of crime.

My journey as a former police detective has been marked by uncovering the darkest corners of human behavior. While the weight of this endeavor has sometimes taken a toll on my mental well-being, I remain dedicated to revealing truths and providing closure to those affected by these heinous acts. My work isn't about self-aggrandizement but about utilizing my skills to unearth evidence and deliver answers that can provide solace and understanding. From exposing Jimmy Savile to interviewing Oscar Pistorius, my path has been one of relentless pursuit of justice and truth.