Case Linkage

Case linkage is the process of determining which specific crimes from a series of potentially related crimes are the work of one offender or offender group (gang). The practice is highly idiosyncratic and relies heavily on the education, training, and experience of the analyst doing the linkage. Whatever the analyst's background, there are essentially two component behaviors that are examined in order to make a determination. The first is modus operandi and refers to those things which the offender did that were necessary for the successful completion of the crime. The second is signature, which refers to those things not necessary for the successful completion of the crime. The first is strictly functional, such as wearing gloves or concealing identity, and the second is related to fantasy, and is stated to be more unique to individual offenders. This chapter will examine the research on case linkage and close with a suggested approach.