Friday, December 22, 2006

Suffolk Serial Killer Case: Latest Update

Stephen Wright the second man arrested in relation to the Suffolk serial killer case has been formally charged with murdering Gemma Adams, Anneli Alderton, Tania Nicol, Paula Clennell, and Annette Nicholls. Tom Stephens the first man arrested in the case has been released on police bail subject to further inquries.

Murder Suspect Stephen Wright



Media watch



Headline

Girlfriend insists new suspect is innocent as forensic teams search their home.

Published

20th December

Click Here To Read The Guardian Article In Full

Other Links



Click Here For The Latest Police Briefing


Tuesday, December 19, 2006

Suffolk Serial Killer Latest

A second man has been arrested on suspicion of murdering Gemma Adams, Anneli Alderton, Tania Nicol, Paula Clennell and Annette Nicholls. The 48 year old man was arrested at 5am this morning from his home which is very close to the red light district were the murder victims worked. Tom Stephens who was arrested yesterday remains in custody.

Media watch



Headline

I know I fit the profile - but I also know I'm innocent

Published

19th December

Summary

Intersting article about Tom Stephens, the first man to be arrested in connection with the five murders. The article includes an interview with Jacci Goldsmith who knows Stephens very well and spoke to him shortly before his arrest.

Click Here To Read The Times Article In Full

Other Links



Click Here For The Latest Police Briefing

Tom Stephens MySpace Profile Picture



Thanks to Carey for sending me the link to Tom Stephens MySpace account, which has now been deleted. Sections of the British press have made a great deal out of the fact that Stephens called himself the 'bishop' on his MySpace account.


Monday, December 18, 2006

Suffolk Serial Killer Latest (man arrested on suspicion of murder)

37-year-old Tom Stephens has been arrested on suspicion of murdering Gemma Adams, Anneli Alderton, Tania Nicol, Paula Clennell and Annette Nicholls. He is curently in custody and will be questioned by detectives later on Monday.

Murder Suspect Tom Stephens



Stephens was arrested at 0720 GMT on Monday in the village of Trimley, which is close to the A14 road between Ipswich and Felixstowe.



Stephens was interviewed by the Sunday Mirror newspaper yesterday, stating that he knew the girls well and had been interviewed by police four times but claimed he was completely innocent.

Let's hope the police have the right man, however, I think caution needs to be exercised at this stage, particularly given the money newspapers are willing to pay for information and exclusive stories relating to the case.

Links



Click Here For The Latest Police Briefing

Click Here To Read The Sunday Mirror Interview With Tom Stephens



For a free and comprehensive guide to the world of forensic psychology, including several pages dedicated to criminal profiling don't forget to visit the main forensic psychology website.

http://www.all-about-forensic-psychology.com/






Friday, December 15, 2006

The Psychology of The Suffolk Serial Killer (Latest Update)

As the hunt for the Suffolk serial killer continues and as the case unfolds I will be posting regular updates, particularly in relation to any psychological information or theories. I will also be including links to the latest police briefings and any other credible information sources.

If you would like to be alerted as soon as a new psychology of a serial killer post appears, you can do so by clicking on the orange RSS button (bottom left hand side of the page) to receive automatic content updates in My Yahoo!, Newsgator, Bloglines, and other news readers. Alternatively you can get instant updates via e-mail (see subscribe link, also bottom left hand side of page). You can also bookmark each update by clicking on the social bookmark this link that appears after each post.

Media Watch



Headline

Forensic Psychologists Tackle UK Serial Killer

Published

13th December

Psychology aspect

Contributions from forensic psychologist Keith Ashcroft, Joseph Diaz, a criminologist at Fayetteville State University in North Carolina, David Canter, director of the Centre for Investigative Psychology at the University of Liverpool, and Glenn Wilson, an expert in deviant personalities at the Institute of Psychiatry in London.

Key points

Police say that the spate of serial murders in such a short time period is extremely unusual and may be unprecedented.

Keith Ashcroft, a forensic psychologist and expert in sex crimes, based in Edinburgh, UK, speculates that the murderer is deliberately “taunting” police and that the person probably has some massive grudge against the police force, probably even in Suffolk and wants to make the police look inadequate.

Joseph Diaz, a criminologist at Fayetteville State University in North Carolina, US, says that the fact the bodies were dumped in water suggests that the killer is of above average intelligence, because he knows physical evidence will be washed away.

David Canter, director of the Centre for Investigative Psychology at the University of Liverpool, says: "His first murder was likely to be a carefully considered attempt to hide some other crime: killing the victim because she was a crucial witness."

Glenn Wilson an expert in deviant personalities at the Institute of Psychiatry in London states that Psychologists can paint a picture of a typical serial killer based on profiles of the limited number of serial killers available, but this will not necessarily be accurate, or help police, It may even lead detectives down a blind alley. In supporting his contention Wilson argues that the police may not even consider a female suspect or be alert for a female accomplice. Wilson cites the infamous murder of model Rachel Nickell in Wimbledon, London, in 1992, where he says police adhered so closely to the psychological profile provided that they became blind to other possibilities and wasted valuable time prosecuting Colin Stagg. He was later acquitted of the murder, which has never been solved.

Wilson claims that geographical profiling would be much more useful than psychological profiling, particularly as in this case the bodies were all found close to the A14, a major road that runs from Felixstowe to the Midlands, skirting Ipswich. The killer probably knows the route well and may live somewhere along its path.


Links



Click Here For The Latest Police Briefing



For a free and comprehensive guide to the world of forensic psychology, including several pages dedicated to criminal profiling don't forget to visit the main forensic psychology website.

http://www.all-about-forensic-psychology.com/






Forensic Psychology Internship Opportunity



Overview:

The Forensic Panel is pleased to offer remote/distance internships in forensic psychology for writing, research, and various projects to undergraduate and graduate students. Each position represents a unique opportunity to advance students' knowledge and skills in a setting convenient to them that can be managed and supervised from afar.

Interns for The Forensic Panel observe and participate in challenging projects that reward them with transferable experiences to their future careers. The Forensic Panel seeks creative, responsible individuals who would appreciate a challenging, dynamic environment with energetic and bright colleagues, prepared to complement an existing team with ideas and produce result.

Our remote/distance internships offer flexible schedules, allowing students to complete tasks at their convenience with supervision through the telephone and email. Students will learn various stages of the behavioral science expert's involvement in the legal process while completing a variety of duties in forensic psychology that will involve extensive research, creative writing and many other projects that fall into the realm of the current status at The Forensic Panel.

Behavioral science, medical and legal research will consist of literature searches utilizing various databases, including PsychLit, PsycInfo, Medline, and Lexis-Nexus. Additionally, students will be expected to participate in ongoing research projects on various topics in the behavioral sciences, with possible opportunities for future publication.

The ideal candidate: is an upper-level undergraduate or graduate student who is responsible, detail-oriented and self-motivated, with strong research skills and an ability to work as part of a team. Preference will be given to those with writing and publishing experience.

How to Apply:

To be considered, submit your resume, cover letter stating your career goals, interests, and educational accomplishments and at least two writing samples to: Shahawna Kim, Project Manager, at

skim@forensicpanel.com

All materials should be in Microsoft Word Document format or Rich Text format.

Deadlines and Starting Dates:

The practice offers year-round internships. There are no deadlines. Internships are granted on a first-come first-serve basis. Preference is given to students who can commit to the most active participation. Six month internship is preferred.

Compensation:

All internships with The Forensic Panel are on voluntary basis. There is no financial compensation. Class credit can be earned when applicable through your university.

International Students Internships at The Forensic Panel are for permanent legal residents of the United States or Canada.




Thursday, December 14, 2006

The Psychology of a Serial Killer (update)

As the hunt for the Suffolk serial killer continues and as the case unfolds I will be posting regular updates, particularly in relation to any psychological information or theories. I will also be including links to the latest police briefings and any other credible information sources.

If you would like to be alerted as soon as a new psychology of a serial killer post appears, you can do so by clicking on the orange RSS button (bottom left hand side of the page) to receive automatic content updates in My Yahoo!, Newsgator, Bloglines, and other news readers. Alternatively you can get instant updates via e-mail (see subscribe link, also bottom left hand side of page). You can also bookmark each update by clicking on the social bookmark this link that appears after each post.

Media Watch



Headline

KILLER WIL BE THINKING: THE GAME'S ON

Published

13th December

Psychology aspect

Written by Mike Berry Criminal Psychologist From Manchester Metropolitan University

Key points

Psychological Profile

White male, aged 25-40, works odd hours Will live, work, or have holidayed locally May meet prostitutes as part of his work.

Psychological opinions

Police are hunting an exceptionally cold-blooded murderer with the potential to become, in the short term, Britain's most prolific serial killer.

What makes this man particularly terrifying is that he has killed two women before and then gone out with the deliberate intention to strangle.

He may well find killing face-to-face more personal and because he is in control he will find it particularly enjoyable.

Yesterday's discovery of two women's bodies close to main roads was unusual and worrying. It may indicate it was a bit rushed or he might be clever and goading the police.

He could be motivated by a desire for revenge on women or specifically prostitutes for a number of reasons.

He may have left some indication at the scene of the crime or more likely at the spot he disposed of the victims' bodies. If so, I would expect the killer to have left a sign, such as a cross, for the police by now.

The killer seems confident and organised, suggesting he may be an older man. And he also seems comfortable in the red-light district - he could be a regular punter and probably known to them.

He knows the area well - he either works, lives or comes to the area to play. In all five cases he has taken the women's clothes off. Is it that he is worried about DNA or has he taken them as a trophy? I would suspect he has taken jewellery such as rings or earrings.

He has taken great risks to dump the bodies in public because the area has been crawling with police. As a result, I think he is confident and incredibly arrogant to dump two bodies within a few hundred yards of each other for the police to find. It is rare behaviour.

WHY take the risk unless you are showing off? We are talking about a serial killer who will soon be as famous as any of the other serial killers, such as the Yorkshire Ripper.

He is organised and in control without any doubt at all. He has had the nerve to dump at least one body in view of a busy road.

The killer may be confident he will not be caught. He will be fascinated by the coverage of the case on TV and almost certainly watching the police appeals to the public for information and to him to give himself up.

He will believe: "I've been recognised as a killer, the police recognise they are dealing with someone who is good at what they do."' To commit five murders is very skilful. Most killers only ever kill one person. It is rare to kill twice and rare to kill up to five people in separate events in such a short time.

Profiling serial killers is never an exact science but it is possible to draw up a range of characteristics this man is likely to have. He will probably be between 25 and 40 - no one younger would have the maturity to kill five women. He will also be white, because virtually no serial killers are black or Asian. He is passionately driven by a fantasy almost as if he is following a film which is playing in his head.

But he is also calm and organised. He can transport a body in his car, in the boot or back seat covered up. He must have a reliable car because he cannot risk breaking down at night. He probably has a job because of the car and is able to make the girls think it is worth their while to take a ride with him.

If the killer is not single his job requires him to work irregular hours or shifts so that he does not have unexplained absences, particularly at night when the girls go missing. It is unlikely to be a nine to five job. It is quite likely he does not work in an office, factory or building, but on the streets part of the time. These girls work the streets and are good at spotting potentially dangerous customers, but this guy is getting under their radar.

One of the possibilities is that the killer is someone the girls felt comfortable with - a taxi driver, church worker, nurse or even a policeman. He is somebody who does not raise suspicion by being in a red-light district.

Links



Click Here For The Latest Police Briefing

The following link from the BBC has information on each location in the murder trail and a profile of the victims.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/in_depth/629/629/6175797.stm




For a free and comprehensive guide to the world of forensic psychology, including several pages dedicated to criminal profiling don't forget to visit the main forensic psychology website.

http://www.all-about-forensic-psychology.com/






Wednesday, December 13, 2006

The Psychology of the Serial Killer

Visitors from the UK will be aware that the news story currently gripping the country concerns the murder of several prostitutes, promting fears that a serial killer is on the loose. To date five bodies have been found near Ipswich over the past fortnight. The bodies of Gemma Adams, Tania Nicol and and Anneli Alderton, were all found in rural locations around Ipswich between the 2nd and the 10th of December. On the 12th of December two more bodies were found which are being formally identified today. Police strongly suspect that the bodies will prove to be the missing prostitutes Paula Clennell and Annette Nicholls.



Since the story broke a number of criminal psychologists, forensic psychologists and other behavioural scientists have commented on the case.

Dr Ian Stephen a psychologist working with police on the current investigation stated that The killer is losing control and there is a compulsion taking over, he also claims that the recent deaths may be part of a larger killing spree, adding; "What may be an issue is that when he starts running out of prostitutes not becoming available, he will see any woman who's out on the street at night on their own as a prostitute and will target them as a possible victim."

Writing for the BBC Dr Stephen said the suspect was probably male, white, in his late 20s, 30s or 40s, and is someone who probably had been let down by women in his past.

"He maybe had a mother who has let him down, or a mother who has abandoned him," he added. "In some sense he may have idolised women and then they let him down." He also notes that the killer may be on "some kind of Christian mission" believing he is "clearing the world of prostitutes".

Speaking on BBC radio, Film-maker and criminologist Roger Graef said that he also believes the killer may have had negative experiences with women in the past.

"You can calculate if it's prostitutes that it's somebody who was damaged by a woman, who is ashamed of his own impulses possibly, who is, you know, a religious zealot, who feels that they're corrupting the whole of mankind."

During an interview for the BBC newsnight, Professor David Canter, from the Centre for Investigative Psychology, said that while "almost certainly" the killings were the work of one individual, there were too few details yet to form a detailed profile of the suspect.

"It is difficult to assume anything at the moment without a lot more detailed information," he told BBC Newsnight...because serial murders are rare, it is difficult to generalise about the killers involved..The two or three individuals that come to mind have all been rather disturbed but they have very different characteristics...Some of them found their way into these sorts of murders really from a life of crime where they just become ever more extreme in their criminal acts and in their violence...Some serial killers also have a "bizarre understanding of the nature of women" and may attack women because they believe they are "seductresses who destroy their virtue",

Professor Canter inicated that it was more likely that the case would be solved by using police records to try to discover where the suspect may be based rather than building an "intense personal description of the offender". To read more about the work of Professor David Canter and the Centre for Investigative Psychology just click on the following link.

http://www.all-about-forensic-psychology.com/david-canter.html

Video Link

To watch a video of consultant forensic psychologist Dr Ian Stephen discussing the case just click on the following link.

Click Here To Watch The Video


Thursday, December 07, 2006

M.S Criminal Justice: Concentration in Forensic Psychology: The University of New Haven

The University of New Haven:



M.S. Criminal Justice: Concentration in Forensic Psychology:

A key objective of the master of science in criminal justice program is the education of men and women planning careers in the field of criminal justice as well as the advanced training and education of those who staff the agencies and institutions of the criminal justice system.
The program stresses a broad understanding of the social and behavioral sciences, the institutions of the criminal justice system and the development of methodological tools and skills.

The courses in the area of social and behavioral science stress the theories of the behavior of man in a social order and the sanctions imposed by different societies to control the social behavior of their members. Courses in the area of criminal justice institutions stress the study of the existing system from the police through the courts, the penitentiaries and the system of probation and parole. The methodological courses expose students to the tools of research and analysis and the contribution of systems analysis to the efficient administration of the criminal justice system.

Concentration in Forensic Psychology

This program, offered jointly between the department of criminal justice and the department of psychology, it is designed for those individuals currently working in the justice system, or those planning a career working with the justice system, who are interested in how psychology and law interact in the administration of justice.

Contact Details

School of Public Safety andProfessional Studies
300 Boston Post RoadWest Haven, CT 06516

Tel: 800.DialUNH (800.342.5864)

e-mail: adminfo@newhaven.edu

Website: Visit The Course Webpage

About New Haven



Click Here To Visit The New Haven Information Guide Website

Click Here To See The New Haven Wikipedia Page

Are You Doing This Degree Course?



If so, why not tell people what you think by clicking on the comments link below.

The best way to save this Masters degree review for future reference is to click on the social bookmark this link below.



The USA Forensic Psychology Degree Directory:



A detailed directory of Forensic Psychology Degree courses.

Visit The USA Forensic Psychology Degree Directory



The UK Forensic Psychology Degree Directory:



A detailed directory of Forensic Psychology Degree courses.

Visit The UK Forensic Psychology Degree Directory


Monday, December 04, 2006

Forensic Psychology Newsletter



I've just sent out the December edition of the forensic psychology newsletter. Highlights this month include an excellent article by clinical psychologist and psychology professor Christopher Cronin which provides some much needed clarity in relation to the complex and confusing issue of academic degree accreditation.

As well as Professor Cronin's article there is a review of what's new on the forensic psychology website, the best of the Forensic Psychology Blog Posts and a detailed listing of all the free forensic psychology resources available.

Click Here To Read The Latest Edition of The Newsletter



The Forensic Psychology Store:

A Great Collection of Forensic Psychology Gift Ideas.

Visit The Forensic Psychology Store





Saturday, December 02, 2006

Quality Psychology Blogs



I've just added a new page to the forensic psychology website showcasing the best psychology related blogs on the Internet. Many of the featured blogs cover topics that are directly related to the world of forensic psychology. In addition, you will be able to access lots of well written and very well informed content relating to psychology in general.

Visit The Psychology Blogs Webpage



The Forensic Psychology Store:

A Great Collection of Forensic Psychology Gift Ideas.

Visit The Forensic Psychology Store





Wednesday, November 29, 2006

Forensic Job Vacancy: The University of Manchester (UK)



Research Assistant (2 Posts)

The university of Manchester, division of psychiatry is looking to appoint 2 research assistants required to evaluate two initiatives; firstly, improvements to the transfer of prisoners to psychiatric hospital; secondly, a pilot intervention into depression amongst older adults in prison.

Your main duties will include: conducting and analysing qualitative interviews with staff involved in the transfer of prisoners to psychiatric hospital in the former project; recruitment of older prisoners to the pilot intervention study and conducting regular clinical interviews with this group in the latter project.

With a good first degree in psychology or related discipline (2:1 or above) you will have experience of qualitative methodologies, good organisational skills and be able to work independently, together with undertaking mental health interviews. Experience of working in the Criminal Justice System or secure psychiatric care would be advantageous.

The posts will involve travelling and so the ability to travel independently of the public transport system is essential.

The posts are full-time and available from 2 January 2007 and will be based at the Northwest Forensic Academic Unit, at Ashworth Hospital. Appointment will be subject to a satisfactory CRB check.

Further Job/Application Information



Research Assistant post 1 (6 months)

  • Salary - up to £21,467 p.a

  • Job Vacancy Reference Number MHS/485/06

  • Closing Date 12th December 2006


  • Research Assistant post 2 (12 months)

  • Salary - up to £21,467 p.a

  • Job Vacancy Reference Number MHS/486/06

  • Closing Date 12th December 2006


  • For further details, and to download the job application form visit the university of Manchester job vacancy web page.

    Visit The University of Manchester Job Vacancy web page

    Visit The University of Manchester Division of Psychiatry




    Tuesday, November 28, 2006

    Key Figures in Forensic Psychology: Professor David Canter

    I've just added a new page to the main forensic psychology website showcasing the work of Professor David Canter.



    Professor David Canter was Professor of Psychology at the University of Surrey for ten years, where he founded the MSc course in Investigative Psychology. He continues as Professor of Psychology at The University of Liverpool. He is a Fellow of the British Psychological Society and a member of its Forensic Division and a Chartered Forensic Psychologist.

    He is a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and a Member of the Forensic Science Society. He has published 20 books and over 150 papers in learned professional journals, and lectured around the world on various aspects of scientific psychology. His book, 'Criminal Shadows', won the Golden Dagger Award for crime non-fiction and its US equivalent, an Anthony Award.

    Professor Canter has given evidence to a number of major government enquiries and to a House of commons select committee, including unchallenged evidence to the enquiry into the Kings Cross Underground fire concerning whether the fire was accidental or malicious, and given evidence to the Appeal Courts in Belfast and in a murder trial at the Old Bailey. He has also given advice in response to requests from over 150 police investigations world wide.

    His main area of expertise is the systematic analysis of human behaviour in order to identify the dominant trends within it. This has also involved a number of studies of the inferences about the probable characteristics of an offender that may validly be derived from the consideration of the ways in which he commits a crime. This has included a detailed study of the behaviour of many criminals and the analysis of spoken and written material to indicate its origins and links to other questioned material.

    Professor Canter has recently been elected an Academician of the Academy of Social Sciences; this recognises his important and seminal contributions to the social sciences.

    For more information on Professor Canter, including his seminal work within the field of investigative psychology, visit the main forensic psychology website.

    Click Here For Further Details


    Friday, November 24, 2006

    New Forensic Science Website & Other Work in Progress



    I'm currently working on a number of projects for 2007. In response to the number of e-mails I recieve requesting information on studying forensic psychology, degree options, accreditation issues, career options and prospects, internships/work experience, expert testimony etc; I will be collabortaing on a book with Professor Christopher Cronin designed to provide the definitive student guide to forensic psychology both in the USA and the UK.

    I will also be launching a new Forensic Science Website, the aim of which is to provide a comprehensive overview of all the major forensic disciplines, forensic pathology, forensic dentistry, criminalistics, etc. Each forensic science topic will be introduced by an expert in the field, along with links to quality resources, essential reading guides and degree listings etc.

    And finally, if I can convince my other half that it would be a good idea to invest in a new digital camcorder, I would like to do a series of free forensic psychology video presentations. I'm still thinking about the precise format of the videos but they are likely to take the form of short lectures or forensic psychology video blogs.

    If you would like to be kept up-to-date with the latest developments for 2007, forensic science website launch, free video tutorials etc, just leave your details and I'll let you know as soon as I have any news.

    Click Here To Access The Leave Your Details Form


    Thursday, November 23, 2006

    Forensic & Psychology Video Walls



    I've just added a new feature to the Forensic Psychology Website, namely a constantly updating collection of the most recent Internet based forensic and psychology related videos.

    Each video wall is built around a specific search term e.g., 'forensic expert' and each image in the wall is a sample of the video that you can watch in full should you wish to do so. So far I have added a 'forensic expert wall', a 'FBI profiler wall' and a 'clinical psychology wall'

    For more information and to check out the video walls visit the main forensic psychology website.

    http://www.all-about-forensic-psychology.com/forensic-video-walls.html

    Have a great thanksgiving

    David


    Tuesday, November 21, 2006

    American Psychology-Law Society Award for Best Undergraduate Paper



    The American Psychology-Law Society Award for Best Undergraduate Paper is awarded to an outstanding undergraduate research paper that is focused on the interdisciplinary study of psychology and law. Proposals will be judged based on independence, originality, contribution to field, soundness of design and analyses, and quality of writing.

    To be eligible for an award, the student must be the major contributor to a project on a topic relevant to psychology and law (i.e., the student had primary responsibility for initiating and conducting the project even though the project will usually be conducted under the supervision of a mentor). At the time that the student submits a paper for this award, the student must be the first author on a submission to the annual American Psychology-Law Society conference on the same work.

    To receive the award, the submission to the American Psychology-Law Society conference must have been accepted for presentation as either a paper or a poster. Data collection should be complete. Students may submit their work during their first post-undergraduate year as long as the work was conducted during their undergraduate career.

    Note about the 2007 Award:

    On the years that the American Psychology-Law Society conference is outside of North America (such as 2007), applicants may submit their work to be presented at the American Psychological Association’s annual meeting which will be held in San Francisco on August 17-20,
    2007.

    Nominations/Applications:

    Send one copy of each of the following:


  • Copy of poster or paper proposal submitted to the AP-LS conference (or APA).


  • A statement by the student describing their role in initiating, conducting, analyzing and writing the project (150 words or fewer).


  • APA style manuscript or thesis detailing the research to be considered for an award in less than 10 pages of text. Figures, tables and references can exceed the 10 pages although should be limited to what is absolutely necessary.


  • Letter of support from the student’s faculty supervisor; this letter must characterize the nature and extent of the student’s contribution to the project.


  • Submissions:

    Submissions must be received either via email (preferred in .pdf or .doc formats) or postal mail by the committee chair on or before December 10, 2006.

    Email Address: Veronica.Stinson@smu.ca

    Postal Address:

    Veronica Stinson,
    Chair of the AP-LS Undergraduate Paper Award Committee,
    Department of Psychology,
    Saint Mary’s University, Halifax,
    Nova Scotia, Canada B3H 3C3




    Monday, November 20, 2006

    Jack The Ripper: E-Fit Picture & Geographic Profiling

    Read a really interesting article in the Independent (UK broadsheet newspaper) which reported on the attempts to apply modern investigative techniques to the Jack The Ripper case, the imfamous serial killer who terrorised London in 1888 and was never caught.

    E-Fit of Jack The Ripper



    As part of the new investigation John Grieve, a former deputy assistant commissioner of the Metropolitan Police, who headed the anti-terrorist branch and the force's homicide squad, compiled an image of the Ripper. Drawing on statements from 13 people who claimed to have seen the man they suspect was the killer, Mr Grieve had an e-fit drawn up. Contradictory descriptions were ignored and the image was based on similar witness statements.

    The image shows a man aged between 25 and 35 and is 5ft5in to 5ft 7in tall. He has a large black moustache, close cropped black hair, a pinched face and square jaw.

    Geographic Profiling



    The newspaper report also notes that the pioneer of geographic profiling Kim Rossmo (pictured above) has recently pinpointed where Jack The Ripper most likely lived. Geographic profiling is an information management system and investigative methodology that evaluates the locations of connected serial crimes to determine the most probable area of offender residence. Based on the locations of the killings and reported sightings, Dr Rossmo concluded that Jack the Ripper was a resident of the square mile area in which he killed; and it is highly likely that He lived in Flower and Dean Street. In 1888 the police conducted door-to-door inquiries in Flower and Dean Street. Each of the victims had lived within 100 yards of the street.

    More Information



    There is a page dedicated to geographical profiling on the main forensic psychology website.

    http://www.all-about-forensic-psychology.com/geographic-profiling.html



    On my other blog, I posted an item entitled "Going Beyond The Mo: Criminal Profiling, Jack The Ripper And Signature Behavior". The article draws upon Robert Keppel's analysis of the Jack the ripper murders in order to examine the concept of signature behavior and how this differs from the offender’s Modus Operandi. You can find this other Jack The Ripper blog item listed under previous posts.

    http://all-about-forensic-psychology.blogspot.com/

    Sunday, November 19, 2006

    Forensic Psychology Job Vacancy: Juvenile Forensic Psychologist, Augusta, Georgia (USA)

    The Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR), Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Addictive Diseases (MHDDAD), is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Juvenile Forensic Psychologist in Augusta, Georgia.

    Job Description

    Under limited supervision, you will conduct psychological testing and evaluations on children and/or adults with delinquent or status offenses, which bring them into contact with the judicial system. Provide opinions based on psychological evaluations regarding competency to stand trial and criminal responsibility. May be required to provide courtroom testimony and or
    consultations to court personnel.

    Qualifications

    A current Georgia license to practice psychology (license may be temporary, provisional, or permanent). Or a valid license to practice psychology from any other state and license-eligible in Georgia. Once hired, a Georgia license to practice psychology would be required. Preference will be given to candidates, who can demonstrate:

  • Experience of psychological assessment and diagnosis of children and adolescents.

  • Experience relating to the treatment of childhood and adolescent psychiatric disorders.

  • Forensic experience and/or training.

  • Knowledge of developmental issues in children and adolescents related to cognitive and social development.


  • Benefits

    In addition to a competitive starting salary of $51,000 – $70,000, a generous benefits package is offered that includes a flexible schedule, training opportunities, employee retirement plan, deferred compensation, 12 paid holidays, vacation and sick leave, dental, vision, long term care, and life insurance.

    Employment Information

    This position is located in Augusta, Georgia. Nestled along the banks of the Savannah River, Augusta is the second largest and oldest city in Georgia. Augusta and the Central Savannah River Area provide diversity of cultural, recreation and social activities, low cost of living, excellent public and private schools and is the home of Augusta State University and the Medical College of Georgia. Located in the east central section of the state, Augusta is approximately 150 miles east of Atlanta on Interstate 20. Augusta is also centrally located just two and a half hours from the beach and the mountains.

    Applying for this job

    A cover letter and resume in Microsoft Word format should be sent via e-mail to psychologist@dhrjobs.com To ensure proper routing/handling of your credentials, copy/paste or type the following title in the subject of your email: MHDDAD/Forensic Psychologist

    Candidates for this position may be subject to employment drug testing and criminal background check.

    Click Here To Visit The Georgia Department of Human Resources, Division of Mental Health

    Friday, November 17, 2006

    Key Figures in Eyewitness Memory Research: Professor Gary L. Wells

    The aim of this blog post is to showcase the work of Professor Gary Wells because in doing so, readers will be introduced to some of the most important and influential research within the field of eyewitness memory.



    Gary L. Wells (Ph.D. from Ohio State University, 1977) is Professor of Psychology at Iowa State University and holds the title of Distinguished Professor. Professor Wells is also the Social Science Research Director of the American Judicature Society's Institute of Forensic Science and Public Policy in Greensboro , North Carolina. He is an internationally recognized scholar in scientific psychology and his studies of eyewitness memory are widely known and cited. Wells has authored over 150 articles and chapters and two books. Most of this work has been focused on the reliability of eyewitness identification. His research on eyewitness identification is funded by the National Science Foundation and his findings have been incorporated into standard textbooks in psychology and law.

    His studies demonstrate that rates of mistaken eyewitness identification can be exacerbated by the methods that crime investigators use in conducting lineups and photo spreads. Professor Well's eyewitness research program was launched in 1974 and is directed at discovering the causes of mistaken identification from police lineups and photo spreads; with a particular emphasis on how to prevent these errors. Numerous successful interventions have been developed, such as:


  • Improved instructions to eyewitnesses


  • Improved techniques for structuring lineups and photo spreads


  • Safeguards for insuring the integrity of the administration of lineups and photo spreads.


  • Over 30 years of groundbreaking research has produced a large number of theoretical and applied real world advances. These include developing a better understanding of the tenuous link between confidence and accuracy in eyewitness identification, describing the origins of false confidence, defining the domain of variables that control accuracy, and proposing and developing new lineup procedures. In relation to developing new lineup procedures, two major advancements are the The Sequential Lineup (put simply witnesses view suspects one at a time rather than simultaneously); and Double-Blind Techniques whereby the person responsible for the lineup does not know who the real suspect is.

    Professor Wells has served as an expert for the defense, prosecution, and plaintiffs in criminal and civil cases across the U.S. and Canada. His conclusions about eyewitness identification have received national media attention in such places as the New Yorker magazine, Time magazine, the Chicago Tribune, the Los Angeles Times, and the New York Times. He has made appearances on CBS’s 48 Hours, the NBC Nightly News, CNN’s Newsnight, and NBC’s Today Show, among others. He has given more than 100 workshops and presentations to trial judges, prosecutors, defense attorneys, and police across the U.S. and Canada in the last five years.

    He was a founding member of the U.S. Department of Justice group that developed the first set of national guidelines for eyewitness evidence. He co-chaired the panel that wrote the Justice Department training manual for law enforcement on the collection and preservation of eyewitness identification evidence, which has been distributed to every law enforcement agency in the U.S. Wells has worked with prosecutors and police in New Jersey, North Carolina, Maryland, Massachusetts, California, Washington, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Colorado, Iowa, New York, and other states to reform the way they conduct police lineups. In 2001 Wells was given the Distinguished Contributions to Psychology and Law Award from the American Psychology-Law Society. In 2004, Wells was elected President of the American Psychology-Law Society.

    To find out more about Professor Wells and how to access his comprehensive collection of quality eyewitness memory related reference material visit the main forensic psychology website.

    http://www.all-about-forensic-psychology.com/eyewitness.html

    Thursday, November 16, 2006

    Top Quality Psychology Resource: PsychSplash



    In this post I just want to draw your attention to PsychSplash, which is an outstanding psychology resource that showcases other great psychology resources.

    What you will find on PsychSplash is an ongoing commentary of Psychology related websites and psychology related blogs.



    Gareth Furber BPsych (Hons), PhD

    This innovative and much needed psychology resource is written and maintained by Gareth Furber who notes that PsychSplash is a project aimed at reviewing the web for Psychologists and that the idea grew out of his interest in the web and fascination with how something so huge like the internet could actually make your life easier.

    Well Gareth has certainly made life easier for anybody looking for quality psychology information and there are plenty of things of interest relating to forensic psychology and the application of psychology in a legal context.

    A great feature of PsychSplash is its interactivity. You can comment on Gareth's articles and psychology reviews, make suggestions, express your opinion, direct people to psychology related sites and you can get all the latest PsychSplash entries delivered straight into your inbox.

    Click here to Vist The PsychSplash Homepage

    Tuesday, November 14, 2006

    Critical Issues in Forensic Psychology: False Confessions

    The topic of false confessions is another very important issue within a legal context where psychological knowledge and expertise can be brought be bear. Psychological vulnerabilites and interrogative circumstances are two of the key areas that have been examined by psychologists in relation to false confessions.

    The reason that the study of false confessions is such an important topic within forensic psychology is that research into the reliability of testimony and suggestibility is as old as the discipline itself.



    Hugo Munsterberg

    In 1908 Hugo Munsterberg published 'On The Witness Stand: Essays on Psychology And Crime'. One of these essays was entitled 'Untrue Confessions'. The writing of Hugo Munsterberg was not only groundbreaking but also very perceptive. In the first sentence of his essay on false confessions he stated that:

    I am most seriously convinced that it is a tragedy not only of crime but also of human error and miscarried justice, and my scientific conscience as a psychologist compels me to speak of it because the tragedy of yesterday may come up again, in some other form, tomorrow



    John Mark Karr

    Munsterberg's contention that false confessions were a normal phenomena triggered by unusual circumstances was most recently brought to light in the circumstances surrounding the John Mark Karr case. In relation to the unsolved murder of six-year-old JonBenét Ramsey, John Mark Karr claimed that he was present when Ramsey died and that her death was an accident. Authorities were made aware of Karr via the e-mail correspondence he had with Michael Tracey, a journalism professor at the University of Colorado. Karr was arrested in Bangkok returned to the USA for questioning. Shortly after, prosecutors announced they would not be pursuing charges in connection with the murder after DNA tests failed to place Karr at the scene.

    Theoretical explanations for the psychology of false confessions

    The work of Kassin and Wrightsman in the USA and Gudjonsson in the UK has done a great deal to further our understanding of the psychology of false confessions. To find out more about this work, along with links to a number of excellent resources on the subject of false confessions visit the main forensic psychology website.

    Click Here To See The False Confessions Webpage

    Monday, November 13, 2006

    PSY.D. in Clinical Psychology (Forensic Psychology Concentration). Miami USA



    Program Mission

    The mission of the Psy.D. program in Clinical Psychology at the Carlos Albizu University, Miami Campus is to train culturally competent clinical psychologists at the doctoral level of professional competence with special emphasis on the training of minorities, particularly Hispanics.

    Philosophy of Training

    The philosophy of training for the Psy.D. Program is based upon the value that the needs of a multicultural society are best served by a psychology profession that is both culturally competent and inclusive. In accordance with this value, the Program seeks to provide students with a rich exposure to culturally and individually diverse populations through its academic training and applied experiences. It also seeks to train students that have been underrepresented in the field.

    Training Model

    The Psy.D. Program follows the practitioner-scholar model, as defined by the Vail Conference and further articulated in the Mission Bay Resolutions. The Psy.D. Program is designed to prepare students as clinical psychologists to provide comprehensive psychotherapeutic and psychodiagnostic services, to assume administrative and supervisory positions in mental health programs, and to provide professional psychological consultation. The Program trains students in the theories and concepts of cultural and individual diversity and in their application to the practice of professional psychology. It also trains students to be consumers of research and base their work on the foundation of scientific evidence and scholarly works.

    Training Goals

    Prepare students to become clinical psychologists who provide comprehensive psychodiagnostic and psychotherapeutic services in an ethical and competent manner.Educate students in theories and concepts of cultural diversity and individual differences, and their application to the practice of professional psychology.Prepare students to function as clinical supervisors, program administrators, and/or consultants.Educate students to practice clinical psychology as informed by the theories, methods, and findings of scientific research and scholarly works.

    Program Objectives

    Upon successful completion of academic courses and clinical practica, students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate comprehensive clinical assessment skills.

  • Demonstrate comprehensive skills in clinical intervention.

  • Demonstrate a thorough knowledge of and ability to apply ethical principles to clinical practice.

  • Identify and understand issues related to cultural diversity and individual differences as they affect clinical competencies.

  • Demonstrate the ability as clinical psychologists to serve as clinical supervisors, administrators, and consultants in diverse settings.

  • Demonstrate the skills to be discerning consumers of scholarly works and research, including studies of empirically based treatment methodology.


  • Forensic Psychology Concentration Study Areas



    The Forensic Psychology Concentration is designed to train students to deliver psychological services (psychodiagnostic assessment, case law, legal standards, and expert testimony) within the judicial and correctional systems. The course content for the Forensic Psychology Concentration is as follows:

  • Behavioral Science and the Law


  • Forensic Psychology I (Criminal Law)


  • Forensic Psychology II (Family and Juvenile Law)


  • Police and Correctional Psychology


  • Forensic Assessment


  • Other Information



    Contact Information

    All applications and enquires are dealt with by the University’s Admissions Office. For contact information, online application form and other important information please visit the admissions webpage.

    Click Here To Visit the Admissions Webpage

    Click Here To Visit the University's Psychology Homepage

    About Miami



    Click Here To Visit The Miami City Guide Website

    Click Here To See The Miami Wikipedia Page

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    Sunday, November 12, 2006

    Forensic Psychology Courses: The University of Birmingham (UK)



    The following forensic psychology courses are offered in the Centre for Forensic and Family Psychology, School of Psychology.

    Master of Science in Criminological Psychology:

    This modularised forensic psychology related degree course is designed for graduate psychologists who work with offenders or their victims to develop skills such as assessment, management and treatment. The Course is taught one day a week at the University, beginning late September each year and consisting of lecturers/seminars from invited speakers, practice assessment, case studies and research. The Masters Course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) to be equivalent to stage one of training as a Chartered Forensic Psychologist. Applicants must hold at least a second class honours psychology degree (which confers Graduate Basis for Registration with the BPS) and be working in a forensic setting. Applications by end of March each year.

    Master of Science in Clinical Criminology:

    This modularised forensic psychology related masters degree is designed to help multidisciplinary professionals (non psychologists), develop skills such as assessment, management, intervention and treatment of offenders who commit serious crimes of a violent and/or sexual nature. The Course is taught one day a week at the University, beginning late September each year and consisting of lecturers/seminars from invited speakers, practice assessment, case studies and research. Applicants must hold a relevant degree (at least second class honours) and be working with victims or offenders. Applications by end of March each year.

    Masters in Forensic Psychology Practice (2 years full time):

    Doctorate in Forensic Psychology Practice (3 years full time):

    These two programmes aim to provide the necessary knowledge and skills to work as a forensic psychologist; to analyse offending behaviour and its effect on victims, to manage, assess and plan treatment strategies for both victims and offenders and to work as an expert providing professional reports and training. Each week half of the time will be spent at the University in academic learning and the other half in a forensic practice placement. Students will have the chance to work with offender groups (adults, young people, individuals with learning disability) both in community and institutional environments. An evidence based approach is emphasised with the objective of developing skills in research and evaluation. Therefore, professional case studies, research studies and forensic practice reports are carried out.

    The two year Masters Course is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS) to be equivalent to stage one of training as a Chartered Forensic Psychologist. At the end of the Masters, students may choose to complete a third year full time on forensic research and psychometric methods leading to a Doctorate (Foren.Psy.D.). The practice component of the Doctorate can contribute to stage two of training as a Chartered Forensic Psychologist. The entrance requirement is at least a second class honours degree in psychology which confers Graduate Basis for Registration with the BPS. Deadline for applications is end of March each year.

    Other Information



    Contact Information

    All applications and enquires are dealt with by the University’s Postgraduate Admissions Office.

  • Phone: 0121 414 5488
  • Fax: 0121 414 6378
  • e-mail: admissions@bham.ac.uk
  • Visit the Admissions Webpage and Access The Online Application

    Click Here To Visit the School of Psychology

    About Birmingham



    Click Here To Access The Visit Birmingham website

    Click Here To See The Birmingham Wikipedia Page

    Are You Doing Any of These Degree Courses?



    If so, why not tell people what you think by clicking on the comments link below.

    Forensic Psychology Degree Directories



    Click Here To Review Forensic Psychology Degrees in the USA



    Click Here To Review Forensic Psychology Degrees in the UK

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