Reviews:
Sex-Related Homicide and Death
Investigation:
Practical and Clinical Perspectives, Second
Edition
Alphabetical List of Reviewers
Joseph A. Bobak IV
Professor of
Criminology and Forensic Science
Mount Aloysius College
Detective Mark J. Czworniak
Chicago Police
Department
Area 3 Three Homicide / Sex Crimes Unit
Leslie D'Ambrosia
Special Agent
Criminal Profiler
Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Miami, Florida
Edwin T. Dreher
Deputy Chief, NYPD
District Attorney Nola Tedesco Foulston
18th Judicial
District of Kansas
Chief Prosecutor of Dennis Rader, the BTK serial
killer
Bill Hagmaier
Executive Director,
International Homicide Investigator's Association (I.H.I.A.)
Dr. Frank Horvath Ph.D.
Journal of Forensic Sciences,
July 2011
Dr. Christopher Kunkle
Forensic
Psychologist, Associate Professor
College of St. Rose, Albany, New York
Lt. Ken Landwehr
Commanding Officer
Wichita, Kansas Police Department
Commander of the BTK Task Force
Christina Lane
Ph D. Assistant Professor of
Criminal Justice, Behavior & Law
College of St. Rose, Albany, New York
Major (Ret.) Thomas E. Nye
Warwick, RI
Police Department
Richard E. Ovens, Psy. D.
Director, Employee Assistance Program
New York State Police
Donna Pendergast
First Assistant Attorney
General-Criminal Division
Michigan Department of Attorney General
Raymond Pierce
Detective First Grade (Ret.)
Criminal Profiler
New York City Police Department's Detective Division
Judith Reisman, Ph. D
Former President of
The Institute for Media Education.
Author, scientist, researcher, educator,
lecturer and expert witness on matters concerning human sexuality and human
behavior.
Philip G. Schnelwar
39 years
experience in New York State Criminal Justice System
as Prosecutor, Defense
Attorney, and Judge
D/Sgt. Eric Schroeder
Michigan State Police
Violent Crimes Unit
Marvin Skeen
Chief Criminal Investigator
Homicide
Investigation Tracking System
Washington State Office of Attorney General
Larry Thomas
Assistant Director, Kansas
Bureau of Investigation (Retired)
Laren Thorson,
D/Sgt. (Retired)
Michigan State Police Crime Scene
Investigator
Ronald Turco, M.D.
Past President
of The American Academy of Psychoanalysis and The Society of Psychoanalytic
Physicians
Former (Reserve) Police Homicide Detective - Beaverton, Oregon
Police Department
Michael R. Wagg
Chief Criminal
Deputy
Douglas County Sheriff's Office
Barbara C.
Wolf, M.D.
Chief Medical Examiner
District 5, Florida
Larry Welch
Director, (Ret.) K.B.I.
Jim Yontz
Deputy District Attorney
Centennial,
Colorado
Vernon Geberth has challenged, if not demanded, that investigators "Get it right the first time, because you only get one chance." Remarkably, the second edition of Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives provides evidence that things can indeed be done right the first time and, nevertheless, continue to be improved...that is, when Lt. Cmdr. Vernon J. Geberth has decided that it be so. In a style all his own, Vernon has provided us with a means to understand the individuals, the motivations, the vile depravity, and the disregard for human life associated with sexual homicide and related crimes…acts in an abyss so horrific that the typical mind often is unable, or unwilling, to fathom them. Regrettably, by virtue of their chosen profession, investigators must confront that unfathomable violence on a regular basis, and through this second edition Geberth both prepares these professionals and provides them with a successful battle plan...arming them with knowledge.
This second edition is not simply a reprinted and nearly identical version of the initial work…which so often is the case, but rather, a distinctly improved version of what most considered to be an unparalleled first edition. It is apparent that great attention and energy has been exhausted to ensure the second edition surpassed the extremely high standard that was established with the initial edition of this work. Vernon has commendably revised Chapter One, debunking the data and conclusions of Kinsey and Money, exposing the corresponding failings, misinformation, and sloppy research that had for so long been accepted as foundationary in the discipline.
Throughout the textbook, novel case reports/analyses (including an entire chapter on the BTK investigation), pictorial representations, fresh perspectives, clarifications, and highly detailed examples have been incorporated to ensure that those charged with investigating sexual homicides are setting forth prepared with incomparable insight to the inner-workings and nuances of those who perpetrate these heinous offenses. It has been stipulated that "Knowledge is power" and Vernon's willingness to share his unsurpassed expertise and experience have allowed him to provide the most complete, enlightening, contextual, and current work available (a classic upon the date of publication) that empowers every law enforcement officer, educator, investigator, consultant, attorney, and judge to "Get it right the first time." We should all be grateful.
Joseph A. Bobak IV
Professor of Criminology and Forensic Science
Mount Aloysius College
Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation Second Edition is Vernon Geberth's latest contribution to the law enforcement and criminal justice community. This book is a companion piece of reading to Mr. Geberth's seminal book, Practical Homicide Investigation: Tactics, Procedures, and Forensic Techniques, 4th Edition.
This newly released edition is not just a re-print or repackaging of outdated material. Mr. Geberth is constantly researching, updating and charting new territories, when it comes to homicide investigations.
This book updates the reader in advances in new technologies, case studies and investigative strategies, and their applications in law enforcement, since the first printing of Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation in 2003.
Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation contains new and meticulously researched material essential to the resolution of a homicidal or death related investigations. Mr. Geberth provides current information and investigative considerations needed for the continuously changing types of homicides, as well as the ever evolving profile of murder and sex related crime offenders. It is presented with full color illustrations and updated color photographs.
Geberth has completely revised his chapter on Human Sexuality and Sexual deviance. He provides the fundamental groundwork to understanding how the human brain develops and functions, which then sets the stage for further explanation of the Human Sex Drive and Sexual Deviance. Geberth outlines, in easily understood terms, the basics of human sexuality and how the development of the human brain, both pre and post childbirth will have a profound effect on a persons physiological and biological sex drive in later years.
This chapter also sets the foundation for the chapter on the Significance of Fantasy in sex-related events, which has been bolstered with additional research material and reemphasizes the necessity to completely understand the extreme significance that fantasy takes place in sex related crimes, and how recognizing and identifying the fantasy component is instrumental to completing a comprehensive investigation.
Mr. Geberth cites various research studies conducted by a variety of experts, as well as his own research, in attempt to explain normal human sexual behavior as well as sexual deviance.
It is the recognition of sexual deviance, which enables the investigator to evaluate, "just exactly what took place," at the crime scene and to search for evidence, which may link more than one crime to the same offender. Vernon Geberth's book offers graphic examples of sexual deviance and what role it plays in a criminal investigation.
Newly acquired case histories are presented to broaden the knowledge base of homicide investigators and provide them with investigative strategies. Mr. Geberth documents the importance of the investigator to have a trained eye to detect the "Signature Aspect" and conduct Linkage Analysis of specific crimes.
A crowning achievement, is an entire chapter devoted to the in depth presentation of the notorious BTK murder investigation. This one particular case provides a real world example of what Mr. Geberth attempts to convey in his book.
The Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation Second Edition text provides the investigator with a variety of checklists that can and should be used by any investigator to insure that all investigative avenues are covered. Additionally, the various chapters in Mr. Geberth's book, detail a wide variety of investigations, covering sexual sadism, sex related domestic violence murders, lust murders, serial murder, rape and sodomy orientated murder, sexual torture, and child sexual homicide cases, to name just a few. Auto-erotic fatalities are covered in detail as well as equivocal death investigations. Geberth provides various investigative considerations to the investigator to assure that the appropriate investigative conclusion is achieved.
Mr. Geberth brings the reader his own personal experiences as a New York City "murder cop," as well as case investigations submitted to him for consultation, and case investigations submitted by homicide and sex investigators nationwide. In usual Geberth style, he whole heartedly gives credit to the investigators whose investigations he provides and details as case studies in this book.
Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation is a book every criminal investigator should read cover to cover, and refer to, from time to time, as an excellent source of investigative strategies. Vernon Geberth and his series of books continue to increase the knowledge and awareness of the criminal investigator in the ever changing and challenging world of criminal investigation.
Mr. Geberth's credentials, continually establish him as a leading authority in death and homicide investigations, as well as sex related crimes.
Detective Mark J. Czworniak
Chicago Police Department
Area 3 Three Homicide / Sex Crimes Unit
Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives, Second Edition bridges the gap between academic research and practical investigations. Although Vernon Geberth is a qualified and respected researcher, he is first and foremost an investigator. He provides information on relevant techniques distinguishing between theory and practice. He knows what a diligent and professional investigator needs and he delivers.
Seasoned investigators will lament that they wish they had possessed their current knowledge and experience when they were beginning their careers. This book provides that opportunity for detectives. This book is not just an important and comprehensive guide for the experienced death investigator, but is also relevant and significant to any law enforcement officer. The information contained in this edition will provide the law enforcement officer with critical tools and information to assist them in the identification and recognition of sex-related criminality.
There are also significant behavioral perspectives provided, which will enhance the investigative assessment of crime scenes. With advances in forensic science, more homicides are being identified as sexual and/or serial in nature. Investigators realize that it is not a matter of "if" they will encounter such a case, but "when" this will occur.
This book is an essential guide to understanding and solving sex-related homicides and death investigations. This edition provides improved illustrations of key points through color crime scene photography and the addition of new, relevant case examples. Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives, Second Edition, is a book all law enforcement officers should read. We should all be grateful to Vernon Geberth, and the experts he acknowledges, for imparting their expertise and knowledge solely to assist us in seeking justice.
This book is a service to law enforcement and to the victims of violent crime.
Leslie D'Ambrosia
Special Agent
Criminal Profiler
Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Miami, Florida
I have known Vernon Geberth for over 35 years. He was my number one Homicide Commander in Bronx County, New York City. He always showed dedication, competency, and commitment to excellence. Guided by his principle, "Remember, we work for God", he broke the toughest cases with passion and fervor, along with his comprehensive knowledge and expertise on how to apply it.
Vernon never followed the crowd. He was a leader who made it his mission to know every state-of -the-art technique, and never hesitated to develop and apply new strategies when necessary. His enthusiasm and skill motivated his subordinates to reach for their highest potential.
New York City's teeming population with its accompanying epidemic of sex related crimes demands the level of expertise and practical skill that Commander Geberth provides. His book, focusing on both practical and clinical issues, brings into clear view the knowledge gleaned from his extensive and varied experience. This book also provides a vast compendium of sex related cases derived from his experience in leading workshops and seminars.
His spectrum of experience, brought into sharp relief in this work, should be seen as a prerequisite for all law enforcement professionals in this field.
Edwin T. Dreher
Deputy Chief, NYPD
Vernon Geberth has done it again! With over 40 years of law enforcement experience, and a series of acclaimed crime investigation treatises Geberth continues his role as the consummate crime analyst pulling together one of the best reference sources for law enforcement, prosecutors and forensic examiners.
In his 2nd edition of Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation, he has added vital discussions on emerging trends and case histories that jump from the pages replete with forensic analysis and graphic crime scene photography to illuminate uncharted waters for those who work daily to combat crime in their communities. There is no better source than Geberth for his cogent analysis of the mind of the criminal offender.
If you can't have Vernon standing by to guide you each step of the way, put this "thriller" in your library without delay!
District Attorney Nola Tedesco Foulston
18th Judicial District of Kansas
Chief Prosecutor of Dennis Rader, the BTK serial killer
This is not the first time I have had the opportunity to review one of Commander Geberth's outstanding offerings; and for the benefit of all those who presently or in the future, protect and serve, I sincerely hope it will not be his last.
First off, in our profession we find many publications intended to improve our collective abilities to safeguard our communities and preserve life. Such publications (and many are excellent) are borne out of academia, science and technology, and others like Geberth are from pure experience, sweat and blood - from the streets themselves.
This reviewer does not claim to be in the literary league of those contributors, but in nearly 40 years of law enforcement, it is not difficult to separate the wheat from the chaff in assessing the true caliber of knowledge and genuine experience of the writer.
Commander Geberth could have easily taken a different literary path and written numerous, dare I predict, bestselling books wherein he could have shared his personal experiences as a NYPD homicide investigator and commander in "DA Bronx". Having previously served on the original JBRTF (JTF-1, FBI/ NYPD) and witnessed violent crime and homicide investigations in the Bronx and surrounding areas, I can attest that virtually every day would serve for a book chapter or television episode; for many years, this was Geberth's "office". Instead, and fortunately for us, he has consistently chosen to focus on learning situations, teaching points, forensic, technological and behavioral issues utilizing real life cases he or respected (and/or duly credited) contributors investigated to drive home invaluable messages.
In plain words, The Second Edition of Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation is…..well it is a load. It is a load to carry, and it is a load to read. Most importantly, it is a precious load of information, insight and data which is not found anywhere else. It is a book which should be in the library (whatever form that may take) of every homicide /sex crimes investigator, behaviorist, serious crime analyst, coroner and medical examiner. I would add violent crimes prosecutors to that list as well.
Over a decade ago, the FBI's highly regarded National Center for the Analysis of Violent Crime (NCAVC) which was comprised of the Criminal Profiling Units and (Violent Criminal Apprehension Program (ViCAP) required that all member agents and analysts, to include those in each field office and foreign legal attaché, be provided with Commander Geberth's Practical Homicide Investigation: Tactics, Procedures, and Forensic Techniques aka "the Bible of homicide investigation;" one would expect that the book being presently reviewed is clearly in that class.
Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation, Second Edition offers the reader an extremely well-planned tour of the incidence, techniques, and motivations of sex related killers. The case studies chosen to illustrate the havoc and pain caused by these creatures are invaluable.
They alone would be worth the price but Geberth has once again assured the reader that he has included the most current tools of technology and forensics to apply to investigations. The section on sexual posing of victims in homicides is intriguing and such research is long overdue.
In short, this is a book of necessity. As our society ages and "baby boomers" move on, many professions are left with a critical void of talent. Nowhere is this more crucial than in law enforcement. Presently, we witness those at the top of the investigative pyramid, the homicide cop, either retiring or being transferred into homeland security or related fields. There are no real short cuts for rising investigators to cut their teeth on these most challenging cases; a reference book based on accuracy and currency, is an invaluable tool for all.
In short, this is a book of necessity, and as Commander Geberth has often stated: "We work for God"….and may His providence always guide our judgment.
Bill Hagmaier
Executive Director, International Homicide Investigator's Association (I.H.I.A.)
Retired Supervisory Agent FBI
Unit Chief for the National Center for the Analysis of Violent Crime
This book, a supplement to the very popular and widely acclaimed Practical Homicide Investigation by the same author, focuses on death investigations but with a more limited perspective-only deaths that involve, as the title suggests, sex-related motives or means. Given that about 16,000 homicides are reported each year in the United States, it would be fair to ask how many of them are "sex-related?" Put another way, why be concerned about sex-related deaths if they are not a frequent or, at least, a regularly occurring case type coming to police attention. Why devote an entire book to the topic? Truth be known, there are no reliable national statistics on the frequency of sex-related deaths. (Note: The word deaths is used here instead of homicide because some, maybe many, sex-related deaths are, or seem to be, inadvertent.) There is a reason for this. Some homicides, not sexually motivated, may appear to be so because the offender staged the scene to mislead investigators. And, of course, it is possible that investigator or other error leads to the classification of a homicide as being sex-related when, in fact, it was not.
The scene of a homicide is the most important criminal event that comes to the attention of police and other forensic investigators. A careful and intelligently guided examination of the crime scene and of the forensically analyzable evidence found there give direction to and often determine the success or failure of the investigation, prosecution, and conviction. It is clear, however, that there are some crime scenes that are difficult to evaluate, requiring very experienced and skillful interpretation. Especially prominent in these difficult instances are sex-related deaths as discussed in this book. Certain of these crimes are made all the more difficult because the offenders are extremely clever, very careful, and they go to great lengths to confound investigative efforts. These are, although not exclusively, the offenders often referred to as serial killers. Although these persons may be extremely sadistic and depraved and may kill for reasons and in ways that are difficult to understand, their patterns of behavior sometimes can be deciphered and that can lead to their apprehension. Such killers have "signatures" and highly experienced and savvy investigators, such as this book's author, know that though, unfortunately, not all investigators do. In addition, because these killers often engage in crimes across jurisdictional boundaries, linking crimes by them in one jurisdiction to others in another jurisdiction is neither easy nor common; linkage blindness is the term to be applied here. Of course, this book's author, Geberth, a leading authority on these issues, is aware of all of this. And he is aware that more and better information in the hands of those who investigate sex-related, serial killings can be an enormous assistance.
Serial killing is not the focal point of this book but be advised that if, as an investigator, what motivates killers who have, say, odd, sexual desires is one of your weak spots get a copy of this book. Read the opening two chapters, human sexuality and sexual deviance and the investigative significance of fantasy in sex-related crimes. (Be forewarned: There are statements and pieces of information in these chapters with which I am sure there is some disagreement. If the reader finds fault with some of the material here do not despair. The material is presented to provide context, a perspective which, although perhaps not shared by those with a less-practical objective, reveals the author's experience-based perceptions of how an investigation in the circumstances that pertain here ought to be pieced together.) Then try to put that information into perspective; read the next chapter, a self-reported journal of a serial rapist and the 13th chapter, the chronology and assessment of the BTK killer. The latter investigation spanned more than 30 years. There are other case studies scattered throughout this book but a 30-year investigation that involved multiple murders of a "particularly heinous, atrocious, or cruel" (p. 635) nature is extraordinary. Investigators can do better than this. Geberth knows this; if only what he has to say about such events were commonly understood and shared knowledge, he would be pleased. And, there would be a better record in these crimes than is now the case.
Aside from the somewhat sensational, serial-killer stuff, what else is in this volume. Well, I would not characterize any of it as "normal fare," given some of the bizarre cases presented and the many illustrative, color photographs, but there are multiple chapters, important ones, on crime scene investigation, the collection and preservation of physical evidence, criminal personality profiling, and offender "signature" information. While one can find adequate treatment of these topics in other investigation-related volumes, what is evident here is the special treatment of them as is necessary in crimes that are sex-related.
For investigators of offenses captured by the title of this book, it is to be noted that the sometimes hard-to-distinguish offenses motivated by different sexual interests are given strong and explicit attention in this book. For instance, there are entire chapters devoted to cases of interpersonal violence and sex-related domestic violence, rape and sodomy, lust murder and deviant-oriented assault, child homicides and abductions that are sex-related, sex slave and torture cases and, in the final and very interesting chapter, psychopathic sexual sadism. That is not to say that there are not other sex-related deaths that come to the attention of the police but this book would appear to cover the great majority of them. When we are able to categorize such offenses better than is now possible and when we have useful statistics on their distribution, Geberth will be there to tell us how to deal with them.
An advisement: This book is not a substitute for the author's other, more general volume on homicide investigation. Because sex-related deaths are different, in their characteristics and in their demands for investigative prowess in advance of "ordinary" homicides, this book has to be seen as a supplement to others on investigation. Let me say this in another way: No killer, like the BTK offender (or, for that matter, the Green River Killer et al.), ought to go undetected for years; we can do better. If you are an investigator, you can do better. Read this book. Make Geberth the angel on your shoulder; you know, the one who tells you, even when she is not really there, to change course when you are wrong and to keep going when you are right. If you are a police investigator, this book belongs in your left hand; in the other hand, keep a copy of a more general one on homicide investigation. If that happens to be the one by Geberth, good for you. You are on the right track.
In closing, note that this book has 759 pages. I do not know how many color photographs are included; many. There is a lot of very useful information here. And, much of it you will not find anywhere else. If you do it will not be up to the standard that is set here. I am sure there are good points not included in this book about sex-related deaths, I am just not experienced enough to know what they are. It is likely though that Geberth is already working on the next edition in which he will include such material. For now, this book is the one I am convinced is the best practical guide to investigating sex-related deaths.
Frank Horvath Ph.D.
Journal of Forensic Sciences
Volume 56, Issue 4, Pages 1083-1084, July 2011
Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives by Vernon Geberth is the definitive academic source for learning the essentials of sexual homicide investigation. This text brings the practice of investigation to life in the classroom, and provides students with the closest thing possible to first hand field experience. I use this text as an instructor in criminal profiling and behavioral investigation, and in my professional work as an expert witness on the motivations and the dangerousness of sexual offenders. Geberth's chapters provide not only a practical foundation for sexually motivated homicide investigations, but also detailed elements of such investigations including the many differences and nuances between the varying types of sexual homicides.
This illustration allows students and practitioners to learn the process of drawing distinctions between each type of sexual homicide and the importance of understanding these differences. Geberth truly accomplishes his own goal by giving the reader the information they need to "Do it right the first time" by giving instructors a vital tool for teaching students how to reach the ultimate goal of criminal investigation, catching those responsible and brining them to justice.
Dr. Christopher Kunkle
Forensic Psychologist, Associate Professor
College of St. Rose, Albany, New York
Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation places the emphasis on accurately depicting these types of investigations. It gives investigators proven techniques on better understanding the criminals and why they commit these crimes. Vernon Geberth has written a definitive guide to aid investigators on these most difficult cases. You will want to take notes as you are reading this book.
Geberth relates accurately the events of the BTK homicides and the teamwork it takes to solve difficult cases. With out everyone contributing to an investigation our jobs are much harder. Vernon points out that together with egos put aside for the greater good we can solve these cases and put the bad guys away.
In any high profile case misinformation comes out in various forms. The variety of reports and books that were written on BTK had several facts wrong and drew inaccurate conclusions. Vernon was able to get it right to portray not only the facts but how the case came together.
Lt. Ken Landwehr
Commanding Officer
Wichita, Kansas Police Department
Commander of the BTK Task Force
When college students begin learning about violent crimes the question of why people become violent fascinates us and draws us deep into the cases studies. The theoretical and academic presentation of these cases offers students an objective and distanced perspective of the criminal. Understandably, the more infamous the criminal and the more detailed the description of the incident, the more illustrative the case becomes. By merging academic theoretical material with Geberth's Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives, 2nd Edition, educators can provided a balanced perspective of the impartial explanations of theory and practical reality of the criminal event.
The case studies and pictures provide the student a realistic understanding of the true capacity of the offender and that the criminal is not someone to glamorize. Detailed cases, transcripts, and pictures are just a few examples offered by Geberth for in-depth theoretical application and interpretation. Offender drawings, writings, altered photographs, and website simulations drawn from Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives provide excellent illustrations for how the offender's fantasies develop overtime and are expressed into reality. To further exemplify the offender's cognitive process, Geberth also provides transcripts and offender fantasy drawings with narratives. Lastly, the crime scene photographs provide the student opportunity to analyze method, signature, staging, which submerges them into reality.
Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives is an endless source for theoretical application. The criminal justice student needs to be prepared to know what they may interact with or be exposed to when working within the criminal justice system. Geberth's Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives, 2nd Edition offers the need for the criminal justice student's knowledge to be practically and theoretically balance.
Christina Lane, Ph D.
Assistant
Professor of Criminal Justice, Behavior & Law
College of St. Rose,
Albany, New York
Vernon Geberth has dedicated his career to seeking justice for the victims of homicide and their surviving families. He has spent his law enforcement career on the front lines as a uniformed first responder, an investigator, and retired as a Lieutenant Commander. Since his retirement he has continued his crusade for justice by utilizing his abilities assisting law enforcement professionals by providing his expertise and knowledge as an author through his textbooks, as an educator through his training programs, and as a consultant to numerous law enforcement agencies. His experiences and continuous research into criminal behavior and sex related crimes has established his credentials as an expert in death and homicide investigations, as well as sex related crimes.
As a past homicide investigator, Major Crimes Unit Supervisor, and a Detective Division Commander I have the greatest respect for Mr. Geberth's contributions to law enforcement through his text book series. "Practical Homicide, Tactics, Techniques, First through Fourth editions and Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives, First Edition have all assisted myself and my investigators in the pursuit of justice and provided that expert guidance and critical tools necessary to construct a solid foundation of evidence and case facts to secure successful prosecutions for the victims and families. This new textbook, "Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives, Second Edition has certainly become the most advanced nationally accepted guideline and standard of practice for law enforcement professionals, prosecutors, and medical professionals that are simple yet practical procedures to assist us in performing death-scene investigations and sex-related homicides.
There has never been an investigator's textbook and handbook that contained simple and practical approaches to death scene investigations as contained in the "Practical Aspects of Criminal and Forensic Investigation Series." Vernon has provided first responders and investigators and additional related professional services personnel with that expert information and tools that you could only obtain after years of training at educational institutions that now is truly within your immediate reach when you need it.
Vernon's latest contribution, "Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives, Second Edition," will be another tool in the investigators library into the past lightly researched area of sex-related criminal behavior and death investigations.
This textbook continues to use Vernon's hands on practical approach for the first responders as well as the seasoned investigators. Each topic is covered and analyzed forensically and psychologically in such a way that you actually feel the reality of the actual criminal investigation. This textbook continues to use Vernon's hands on practical approach for the first responders as well as the seasoned investigators. Each topic is covered and analyzed forensically and psychologically in such a way that you actually feel the reality of the actual criminal investigation.
The topics in this text book have been carefully and purposely listed in the "Table of Contents" to be utilized as a quick reference to specific criminal behavior from the collection and preservation of physical evidence to criminal personalities and profiles. Investigators will want to keep this edition on their desk tops.
Chapter 1, "Human Sexuality and Sexual Deviance: Research and Reality," shares with the investigators the background knowledge necessary in understanding the developing mind and its thought process as it its relations to the development of sexual deviant tendencies in a person's physiological and biological foundation. Chapter 2 then leads the investigator into the significance and reality of "Fantasy in Sex-Related Incidents." Extensive research expertly presented with actual cases emphasize the need for investigators to begin to understand the linkage between the human sex drive, motivation, and how fantasy plays a major role in a person's sexual behavior. This chapter assists you in the early recognition and proper identification toward a favorable case conclusion.
Chapter 11, "Sex-Related Child Homicides and Child Abduction Cases," offers insight into horrific crimes against our nations children which emphasis why there is a need for criminal investigators to develop the knowledge and expertise to manage these types of cases and the how in gaining expertise from similar crimes and events as seen in this chapter to prepare a professional documented case for court presentation.
All the information contained in this new 2nd edition has been enhanced from the previous edition with new illustrations, color photographs, and diagrams that were inserted to heighten the reader's comprehension of the actual crime scenes. Investigators and forensic experts from around the country have contributed cases and shared their investigative techniques which increases the reality of these crimes and criminal behavior.
All of us in the field can only wish that we had served under Vernon's command. This new textbook, "Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives, Second Edition," allows you the opportunity to walk with him through the cases of homicide and sex-related crimes across the country and step into the thoughts, motivations and fantasies of the perpetrators. There is no room for errors by the investigators assigned to sex related homicides and death investigations. This textbook utilized as an investigative guide and clinical reference will prepare you for that call to duty and "getting it right the first time."
Vernon is to be commended for his commitment and dedication to all law enforcement professionals that on a daily basis encounter the most horrific and violent crimes and who are entrusted with the investigation of the death of a human being.
Thomas E. Nye, Major (Ret.)
Warwick, RI Police Department
Mr. Vernon Geberth has just completed the second edition of his Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives textbook. It is a comprehensive revision of his landmark first edition text. His new work represents a significant advance in our knowledge of sexually violent offenders and the investigation of sex related homicides, which is supported by scientific research and factual evidence.
Mr. Geberth is a recognized expert in death investigations. His expertise was acquired during his tenure as New York City at Police Officer, Detective and ultimately the Lieutenant-Commander of the Bronx Homicide Task Force. With over 40 years of police and experience, and personal involvement in over eight thousand death investigations he is an eminently qualified expert in death investigations.
Mr. Geberth was not just a detective and supervisor in death investigations he was a remarkably dedicated and detail oriented researcher. He accumulated vast archives of scientifically validated and factually oriented information from his own cases but also obtained additional information from police officers, detectives, criminal investigators, medical and legal professionals throughout the United States. Mr. Geberth translated this material into textbooks, research articles, and academic presentations that advanced the forensic sciences in the areas of death investigations and perpetrator profiles. Unlike some authors, Mr. Geberth has been stubbornly tenacious in his recognition of other detectives, criminal investigators, forensic scientists, medical and legal experts work, enabling him to acquire a large database of factual and scientific information, which he translates into meaningful information for the professional community. Thus his textbooks remain current with up-to-date and scientifically reliable data gleaned from the professionals actively involved in death investigations.
Mr. Geberth's newest text: Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives, Second Edition has been fully updated and revised with new information. The chapter on human sexuality and sexual deviance has been revised to reflect the reality which is based upon scientific research and factual evidence, not on unsubstantiated theory. Likewise chapter 2: The Investigative Significance of Fantasy in Sex-Related Incidents has been updated with current factual information to illustrate the important role fantasy plays and sex-related assaults. He has also added a completely new chapter on the 30 year investigation of the BTK serial killer, which provides a remarkable insight into the mind of a sexually sadistic serial killer. Additionally new case histories and research have been added to virtually every chapter. Revisions have also been added to the criminal personality profiling and investigative analysis chapters. Mr. Geberth has also included a typology of offenders and information on the "signature aspect" of specific crimes.
However; I believe the most significant addition to the text is the inclusion of almost 400 full-color photographs and illustrations, which provide the reader with excellent examples of details which cannot be communicated effectively with black-and-white photos or lecture.
Mr. Geberth's original text: Practical Homicide Investigation: Tactics, Procedures and Forensic Techniques 4th edition is considered the "Bible" of homicide investigation and it is certain that his current text Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation is now the preeminent work on sex-related homicide investigations. Once again Mr. Geberth has provided the professionals in the criminal justice, forensic science, medical and legal professions with an invaluable fund of knowledge.
Most importantly, the information provided by Mr. Geberth is not based upon conjecture or unsubstantiated theory, rather it is based upon solid scientific research and factual information gleaned from those who are actively investigating sex-related assaults and homicides. Mr. Geberth has successfully produced a practical resource for all of the professionals working in the field of death investigation. Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives, Second Edition is now an essential part of the armamentarium of professionals involved in the investigation of sex-related deaths.
Richard E. Ovens, Psy. D.
Director, Employee Assistance Program
New York State Police
Vernon Geberth has done it again with his definitive tome Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives Second Edition which addresses violent sexual assault investigations and has expanded this benchmark text to new levels.
The Second Edition of this comprehensive volume is an incredible compilation that adds yet more information and exhausts the subject. New information includes completely revised chapters on Human Sexuality, Sexual Deviance and the Significance of Fantasy in sex related events. The Second Edition also features revised chapters on Criminal Personality Profiling and an analysis of the Signature Aspect of specific crimes. Newly featured case histories include the infamous 30-year BTK investigation.
Vern's remarkable experience and unmatched expertise have given him unparalleled insight into the investigation of sexually deviant crimes and the psyche of those who perpetrate violent sex related crimes. This book is a must read for every prosecutor and investigator who hopes to gain some insight into the hows and whys of these horrific crimes as well as practical advice as to how to approach these investigations and prosecutions.
I'm grateful that the law enforcement community now has this book as a resource to help explain these deviant crimes and as always I'm grateful that Vern continues his vigilant watch against the "forces of darkness." I'm glad that he's on my team working for God.
Donna Pendergast
First Assistant Attorney General-Criminal Division
Michigan Department of Attorney General
Vernon Geberth has provided law enforcement and the forensic community with a complete comprehensive guide to the successful identification, evaluation and investigation of death and sex-related homicide. His methodical approach to all aspects of major case investigations is displayed in each chapter as the author meticulously details in depth case histories, procedural techniques and an extensive sex-related crime scene check list.
He also offers the psychological and human sexuality research which explains the motivation for the almost unbelievably bizarre behavior exhibited by offenders before, during and after the commission of their heinous crimes. Understanding this motivation is crucial for investigators, and criminal profilers, in their efforts to link the behavior and signature of a single criminal (or team) to a series of sex-related homicides and lesser crimes.
The author's attention to explaining the role fantasy plays in the everyday lives and activities of these criminals will greatly add to the case investigator's understanding of what motivates the offenders to brutalize their innocent victims. This understanding of their aberrant behavior becomes crucial in building a complete case against the offender. And, after the identification and apprehension of the sexual predator, this insight into the motivation and mind of the offender can be invaluable to the novice, intermediate or even senior investigator when developing a thorough strategy for interviewing the sex-related homicide suspect.
Raymond Pierce
Detective First Grade (Ret.)
Criminal Profiler
New York City Police Department's Detective Division
Just as a skilled police artist creates an IDENTIKIT®, a composite criminal portrait based on witness descriptions, Vernon Geberth's 800 page Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigations (2010) creates an historical, psychological and environmental IDENTIKIT® documenting the breeding of sexual psychopaths.
Geberth's IDENTIKIT® includes photographic evidence of a time lag between the release of graphic sex media fantasies and their imitation by men who used these images as manuals for the torture, mutilation, and murder of women and girls as well as by homosexual men who tortured, mutilated, and murdered boys and men.
As principal investigator of the U.S. Department of Justice, Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention, study, Images of Children, Crime & Violence in Playboy, Penthouse and Hustler, our data confirmed the time-lag phenomenon in copy-cat patterns of magazine sexual violence repeated in real life sexual violence against women and children. As an expert in the field of media forensics dealing increasingly with child custody battles associated with spousal pornography addictions, I welcome Geberth's tome as an outstanding resource. No debate in the courtroom or the court of public opinion on the alleged "harmlessness" of graphic sexual images could survive Geberth's photographic, neurological and experiential evidence.
Geberth's unique and bold contribution to law and justice must be seen through the lens of his personal belief "as a murder cop…: Remember: "We Work for God!" Geberth scholastically and effectively expounds through case history information, details that reveal the bogus "sexual revolution" launched by Sexual Behavior in the Human Male (1948) written by Harvard's bi/homosexual-psychopath, pederast, and pornographer, Al Kinsey, PhD.
Geberth's observation that "we might have raised a generation of psychopaths through a very liberal and irresponsible atmosphere" we have called "tolerance," is reaffirmed in Shakespeare's Sonnet 129, circa 1640. Neurosurgeon, Dr. Donald Hilton writes that the sonnet" describes the madness of sexual compulsion," and "pornography addiction."
The expense of spirit in a waste of shame Is lust in action; and till action, lust is perjured, murderous, bloody, full of blame, Savage, extreme, rude, cruel, not to trust. Enjoyed no sooner but despised straight; Past reason hunted; and no sooner had, Past reason hated, as a swallowed bait, On purpose laid to make the taker mad…"
Regarding recidivism, Shakespeare adds that despite knowing full well of the brutality of sexual addiction, although "All this the world well knows; yet none knows well. To shun the heaven that leads men to this hell."
Geberth's text and photographic evidence certainly reveal the madness of "lust in action" as "murderous, bloody… savage." Geberth with his forty years of law enforcement experience, as a homicide commander, and now as a nationwide homicide and forensic consultant has well served the nation and indeed the world. I for one will remember always "We work for God."
Judith A. Reisman, Ph. D.
Former President of The Institute for Media Education.
The Inter-American Institute, Distinguished Senior Fellow in the Study of Social Trends, Human Rights and Media Forensics
Scientific Advisor for California Protective Parents Association
Author, scientist, researcher, educator, lecturer and expert witness on matters concerning human sexuality and human behavior.
I welcomed the opportunity to review Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation, Second Edition, authored by Vernon Geberth.
For over 39 years, l have participated in the New York State Criminal Justice System as Prosecutor, Defense Attorney, and Judge.
During my seventeen years as a Prosecutor in the Bronx County District Attorney's Office, I was the Bureau Chief of the Homicide Bureau. As Chief, I supervised, investigated and prosecuted more than one thousand homicides in Bronx County, New York.
During my tenure as Homicide Bureau Chief, I had the great pleasure of working closely with Vernon J. Geberth, when he was the Commanding Officer of the Bronx Homicide Task Force. Commander Geberth's extensive knowledge, unmatched expertise, and boundless creativity with homicide investigations, was responsible for the successful prosecution of countless homicides in Bronx County.
Geberth has succeeded in the impossible, and has improved and updated the most outstanding and comprehensive treatise on the subject of sex-related homicide and death investigations. Revised chapters and new case histories, including the infamous 30-year BTK investigation, make this a most valuable resource addition to those dedicated law enforcement professionals, with the profound duty and responsibility of investigating and prosecuting sex-related homicides.
The new second edition explains every aspect of a sex-related homicide investigation with an easily understood, how-to-approach, complete with do's and don'ts, from someone who has been there- This treatise covers the basics, as well as the cutting edge forensic techniques available, along with case studies and practical examples of the psychopathology involved, and clinical considerations needed to understand the significance of the behaviors of the sexual offender.
Commander Geberth has taken his forty years of experience, investigating literally thousands of homicides and nationwide consults, with experts in forensic science and criminal investigations, and making a comprehensive and practical resource Text that will serve as an investigative guide aid clinical reference for the law enforcement professional, who is dedicated to resolve sex-related homicides.
It is my opinion, that Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation- Second Edition, is a "must buy" for the professional involved with the investigation and prosecution of sex-related homicides, and is an essential addition to Vernon J. Geberth's most respected, Practical Homicide Investigation, Fourth Edition.
Philip G. Schnelwar
39 years experience in New York State Criminal Justice System as Prosecutor, Defense Attorney, and Judge
Vernon Geberth's "Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation,"Second Edition is far and away the most detailed and informative resource a homicide and sex crimes investigator could wish for. The quality of this work reflects the high professional standards set by Geberth with his Practical Homicide Investigation series. There are other textbooks available, but only Geberth has earned the level of respect and admiration of homicide investigators around the world that his works are referred to as "The Bible" of homicide investigations.
"Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation," Second Edition clearly demonstrates Geberth's talent for translating the most horrific crimes imaginable into an accurately documented and easily understood resource for those involved in the investigation of violent crimes.
As one of the officers assigned to provide Investigative Analysis services to all law enforcement officers and investigators within the State of Michigan, I personally found chapter 14, Investigative Analysis, Criminal Personality Profiling and the Signature Aspect, especially enriching. Geberth again shows his ability to take a topic that, over the years, has become an avenue for academics to present and argue theory, and return it to a format that is, like the title suggests, Practical, for the front line investigator.
If I can't have Geberth himself standing next to me at a crime scene, at least I know that his works will never be more than an arm's reach away.
D/Sgt. Eric Schroeder
Michigan State Police
Violent Crimes Unit
In Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives SECOND EDITION, Vernon Geberth continues to provide homicide and death investigators with the necessary investigative tools for obtaining successful results. And he does it not by merely reprinting the first edition (as is so often done by academicians of their textbooks) but by providing new research, case examples, photographs, updates, corrections, and expanded insight into sex-related death investigations.
The second edition provides the reader not only with the ability to determine the who, where, when, what, how, and why of sex-related deaths but does it in a practical and useful manner. As he does in his other textbooks, Geberth's attention to detail is constantly ensuring the reader has the latest and most correct information on the subject matter. Geberth has a worldwide network of disciples who share their investigations with him, and throughout his book he shares it with the reader.
Geberth's practical experience as a New York City police officer and, most important, a homicide detective, supervisor, and commander provides him with the hands-on knowledge needed. He has "been there, done that, and bought the tee shirt." His experience and education, along with his internationally recognized expertise in homicide investigation, provide a powerful and useful basis for his conclusions. Geberth's conclusions come from their practical application and are not just untested theories.
Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives SECOND EDITION is a must-read for and is the best resource for anyone involved in sex-related death investigations: police, lawyers, judges, and mental health professionals. What they don't know about the subject, they had better find out, and this book does just that for them. Geberth continues to learn, and thankfully he continues to share his experience and knowledge with us in his books.
Marvin Skeen
Chief Criminal Investigator
Homicide Investigation Tracking System
Washington State Office of Attorney General
Another Vein of Gold for Homicide Investigators and Prosecutors!
The changes that Mr. Geberth has incorporated into the Second Edition of Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives run much deeper than just the color change of the cover! When you boil down the remarkable collection of work by Vernon Geberth, who has been called "Mr. Murder", including this newest edition of Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation, you discover that what makes his work so germane for professionals involved with solving and prosecuting death cases is the manner in which he presents his investigative considerations. Vernon takes us to the crime scenes of numerous examples of sexually-motivated deaths and, with the expertise that only a murder cop who has investigated and consulted on 8,000+ cases can do.
Vernon uses his cases and his reviews of real cases submitted to him by homicide investigators across our country to reveal the keys of solution in his "practical investigation" approach and provide some vital investigative strategies to resolve these cases with full credit given to the "boots-on-the-ground" detectives no less!
Mr. Geberth's work is solution driven and with this latest update he provides enormous insight into a variety of topics that impact the sexually-motivated killer and circumstances that affect other death investigations. Vernon combines his years of experience, analysis and research then puts it between the cover of his text books affording the investigator the convenience of "one-stop shopping" for the most innovative investigative techniques available. His work saves the investigator hours, if not years, of independent research that would be necessary to gather this volume of information related to sex-related death investigations. As a homicide investigator, having this text book as a resource when working sex-related death cases will ensure that you proceed with confidence as a murder cop appointed to the imperative mission of seeking and delivering justice for our victims.
All of the critical information from the First Edition of Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation is still there. With the major revisions and updates incorporated in the chapters of this Edition, you will not find a more definitive resource for investigating and prosecuting sex-related murders. Chapter 1 starts by debunking some of the stereotypical myths about sexual deviance and discusses how sexual predators justify their perversions using the same information that is desensitizing our society with regards to deviant sexual experimentation.
One of the most valuable chapters is Chapter 2, addressing the investigative significance of fantasy in sex-related incidents. Vernon reveals the importance that "deviant" fantasies play in the evolution of a sexually-driven offender and eventually in the crimes of sexually-driven killers. Dennis Rader, BTK serial killer, verified this concept when interviewed confirming that his fantasies were a blueprint of his perversions. In this book, Vernon informs the investigator how to use this knowledge in securing search warrants which will ultimately connect the offenders to their crime scenes.
Vernon's additional updates concerning Investigative Analysis and Personality Profiling, findings of the Working Group of Human Asphyxia (including an autoerotic investigative checklist), Psychopathic Sexual Sadism, Sex-Related Domestic Violence Murders, Sex-Related Child Homicides and listings of Expert Investigative Resources all arm the investigator with the resources to conduct a knowledgeable scene investigation which is, as we know, the heart of a thorough criminal investigation.
As one of the BTK Task Force supervisor's, I can assure you that Vernon's consultation during our investigation that led to this serial killer's arrest was invaluable. Likewise, Chapter 13, The BTK Investigation, will be an invaluable resource for you. You will not find a more comprehensive case review ANYWHERE, especially the analysis of the communications between the Task Force and Rader. It is quintessential Vernon. In addition, Vernon's analysis of the impact of the serial killer's underlying pathologies that come into play in such communications is spot on.
When you read the Preface in this book you will find Vernon's goal for this Second Edition, "…provide a comprehensive and practical resource text that will serve as an investigation guide and clinical reference to those involved in sex-related homicide and death investigations." When you finish reading this book you will agree that Vernon hit this one out of the park!
As a professional you realize that only through perpetual self-development can you stay abreast of the latest techniques that will give murder cops the advantage during an investigation. We are lucky to have Vernon, his resources and his consummate quest to ensure that as investigators we are appropriately equipped on our team. Please take advantage of Vernon's contributions in the latest edition of this remarkable resource and use them. With God's help, Vernon's guidance and our own commitment, we can make sure that the victims of violent death have a champion in their corner.
Our victims and their families deserve it!
Larry Thomas
Assistant Director, Kansas Bureau of Investigation (Retired)
Nothing puts more fear in the minds of a community than a sexual predator or a sex-related homicide. Public outcry and the potential for multiple offenses put intense pressure on law enforcement investigators. Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives, Second Edition by Vernon J. Geberth is just as the title suggests, a comprehensive guide to assist the investigator in the recognition and understanding sexual aspects of a crime scene.
The text explains with scientific research, real-life case histories, and academic terms essential information investigators must know to bring justice to victims of society's most violent type of crime.
The law enforcement community owes Vernon Geberth gratitude for his lengthy dedication to education, training, and professionalism in law enforcement. Thank you, Vernon.
Laren Thorson, D/Sgt. (Retired)
Michigan State Police Crime Scene Investigator and
Police Academy Instructor Northwestern Michigan College
Vernon Geberth substantially advanced the law enforcement profession with the publication of Practical Homicide Investigation: Tactics, Procedures, and Forensic Techniques as well as Practical Homicide Investigation: Checklist and Field Guide, both of which are considered the "bible" of law enforcement homicide investigation. In 2003 the author wrote the first edition of Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation - Practical and Clinical Perspectives. This is an extremely well written book that allows us to study the results of detective Geberth's research and practical experience over a lifetime of investigation and teaching.
The second edition of this book expands on previous material and brings us directly into the investigation, the murder scene and the mind of the perpetrator. This is a very practical and easily read text. The book goes beyond mere description and is absorbing and intense. We learn more about such concepts as linkage, linage blindness, signature elements and piquerism. These ideas bring us into the psychology of the perpetrator as well as the behavioral aspects of the crime scene itself. Many myths are dispelled. For example voyeurism must always be treated as a serious offense. While not all voyeurs are lust murderers, all lust murderers have a history of voyeurism.
The second edition of this book expands on previous material and brings us directly into the investigation, the murder scene and the mind of the perpetrator. This is a very practical and easily read text. The book goes beyond mere description and is absorbing and intense. We learn more about such concepts as linkage, linage blindness, signature elements and piquerism. These ideas bring us into the psychology of the perpetrator as well as the behavioral aspects of the crime scene itself. Many myths are dispelled. For example voyeurism must always be treated as a serious offense. While not all voyeurs are lust murderers, all lust murderers have a history of voyeurism.
Chapter 2 dealing with the significance of fantasy in sex-related incidents has been expanded with new case reports and graphic materials. Chapter 11 dealing with sex-related child homicides and child abduction has also been elaborated upon with the inclusion of the Westley Allen Dodd case and other case examples. The author has added an entire chapter (Chapter 13) on the BTK serial murder investigation. This provides for a cogent analysis of an entire investigation replete with photographs, drawings and the history and description of the multiple victims and crimes. The interrogation itself is discussed including aspects of victimology - the collection and assessment of significant information relating to the victim and his or her lifestyle.
The text is enhanced with the new drawings and photographs throughout the book. This includes material associated with the O.J. Simpson crime scene.
The material on DNA technology has been updated and enhanced. This important scientific tool along with the behavioral understanding of sex-related homicides establishes this book as the foremost text for sex-related murder investigations. The author has also added seven pages of "sexual posing cases" in the form of an easy to read format which includes type of murder, state, modality of death, presentation and motivation.
The author provides us with the work of many experts in the field of forensics and homicide investigation thus providing the most up to date and concise material available.
This book is a "must" for anyone involved in sex-related homicide investigation. It is also a valuable adjunct to any law enforcement officer who wishes to expand his repertoire of knowledge about criminal investigation and the motivation and behavior of people who commit sex abuse and murder.
Ronald Turco, M.D.
Past President-The American Academy of Psychoanalysis
Past President - The Society of Psychoanalytic Physicians
Former (Reserve) Police Homicide Detective - Beaverton, Oregon Police Department (25 years).
Current consultant to multiple police agencies including the Oregon State Police SWAT Team.
In Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation, Vernon Geberth added the second testament to his bible of homicide investigation, Practical Homicide Investigation, extending his common sense, practical experience, and broad research network to the dark world of sexual homicide. Now, our friend and renowned author does with Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation, the second testament of the investigators' homicide bible, what he did with Practical Homicide Investigation, the first testament, and improves the original version.
In this Second Edition of Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation he repeated that which should be repeated, revised material requiring revision, and added considerable new material, including 126 new graphic photographs and many new case studies.
Of particular interest to many in this colorful, heavy second edition of Sex-Related Homicide will be Geberth's new Chapter 13 and his excellent description therein of the serial murder saga of BTK in Kansas, 1974 to 2005, and the masterful direction of the BTK Task Force, March 2004-February 2005, that eventually brought the arrogant serial sexual killer Dennis Rader to justice.
While much has changed or been added to the second edition, something very important is the same. I speak of the Vernon Geberth style of graphic descriptions and photographs, and the Geberth custom of extending credit to others while deflecting credit away from himself. And, of course, his perpetual pursuit of authenticity and accuracy. Once again, obviously, he found both.
Larry Welch
Director, retired
Kansas Bureau of Investigation
Homicide investigation is part science and part intuition. As a homicide investigator I rely on those that I trust in the field of homicide and death investigations. I first became acquainted with Vernon Geberth in the mid-1990's during a particularly heinous crime in our small community. His suggestions and assistance were greatly appreciated.
A good investigator has to concentrate on the clinical aspects of homicide as well as the dynamics at play and really see the crime scene. Vernon's "Practical Homicide" textbooks are a must read for any professional investigator.
Vernon's latest textbook Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation Second Edition is excellent. The case studies are well presented and give a true insight into these horrific crimes.
I have come to rely on Vernon's practical approach and the details that he provides in putting all the pieces of the puzzle together. I use his practical techniques when running a homicide investigation and expect the same of my team. Thank you, once again, for providing an outstanding textbook to give us the edge in our fight against those that prey on their fellow man.
Michael R. Wagg
Chief Criminal Deputy
Douglas County Sheriff's Office
As a companion to his renowned text, Practical Homicide Investigation, now in its fourth edition, Vernon Geberth's Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives Second Edition draws on his vast experience as the Commander of the Bronx Homicide Task Force with the New York Police Department, as well as his wealth of knowledge gleaned from consulting on numerous homicide cases. The newly released second edition greatly widens the scope and depth of its predecessor, drawing in abundant new material from many cases, including the BTK serial murder case and many other high profile investigations, and providing valuable investigative methods and protocols.
As is well known to the thousands of his "disciples" nationwide who have attended his Practical Homicide Investigation Seminars, Mr. Geberth's investigative methods illustrate the importance of the multidisciplinary investigation and team work essential to successful medicolegal investigation and prosecution of such cases. His case studies demonstrate the importance of a thorough crime scene investigation which forms the basis on which law enforcement, the crime laboratory, medical examiner and prosecutor rely. The new edition also greatly expands the exploration on the clinical aspects of offenders of sex-related crimes, delving into the criminal mind and criminal personality profiling. As the definitive treatise on sex-related deaths, Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives Second Edition belongs on the shelf of anyone from any discipline in the forensic sciences involved in the investigation and prosecution of these cases.
Barbara C. Wolf, M.D.
Chief Medical Examiner
District 5, Florida
Lt. Commander Vernon J. Geberth's Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives SECOND EDITION remains the ONLY source combining clinical evaluation with case studies, practical experience and a 21st century approach to dealing with such cases.
The first edition is not out of date. But, the second edition provides more refined analysis and additional insight into case studies that could only have been garnered over time. This too is not a book that sits on the shelf. Rather is has a place on my desk for ready reference on a daily basis. Whether you serve as an officer on the front lines, a detective or a prosecuting attorney Sex Related Homicide and Death Investigation is a "must have" book.
In today's legal setting one mistake can make the difference between success and failure in the courtroom. Following Commander Geberth's approach to evaluating and investigating these crimes will save hours of "re-inventing the wheel" and prevent fatal errors from cropping into your investigation. This treatise provides prosecuting attorneys with an understanding of one of the most complex crimes they can ever prosecute.
As a police officer eight years and a prosecuting attorney for the past 26 years I have never come across a more insightful, job related book. We all know that "We work for God", this book is THE guide on how to do the work.
Jim Yontz
Deputy District Attorney
18th District Attorney's Office
Centennial, Colorado 80111
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