Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives (Hardcover)

~ (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Review

A virtual A-Z encyclopedia of information covering all aspects of sex-related homocide investigations from the CRIME SCENE to the CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR. A necessary tool for law enforcement and related support professionals. A great addition to your personal forensic library.
Major Thomas Nye, Warwick Police Department, Warwick, Rhode Island, and Executive Director, Northeast Law Enforcement Officers Association

As the prosecutor in the David Parker Ray case, which is featured in Chapter 12, I wish I had had this book as a reference before that case broke in 1999. Had [we] been so fortunate we, prosecutors and investigators, would have saved ourselves hundreds of man-hours in research, evaluation and investigative time. Our investigation and prosecution would have been more focused and directed. All of us would have had a better understanding of this type of crime and what was going to be needed to see the case through to a successful conclusion. As opposed to trying to re-invent the wheel in a type of case we had never before encountered, we could have followed the road map.

Commander Geberth has succeeded in the impossible task of taking his thirty-five years of experience investigating literally thousands of homicides and consulting nationwide with experts in forensic science and criminal investigation, and making a comprehensive and practical resource text that will serve as an investigative guide and clinical reference. …a must-buy for the professional involved with the investigation and prosecution of sex-related homicides.
Philip G. Schnelwar, Attorney at Law, White Plains, New York, USA

Commander Geberth has succeeded in the impossible task of taking his thirty-five years of experience investigating literally thousands of homicides and consulting nationwide with experts in forensic science and criminal investigation, and making a comprehensive and practical resource text that will serve as an investigative guide and clinical reference. …a must-buy for the professional involved with the investigation and prosecution of sex-related homicides.
Philip G. Schnelwar, Attorney at Law, White Plains, New York, USA

I'm grateful that the law enforcement community now has this book as a resource to help explain these deviant crimes and as always 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, Principal Attorney-Homicide Unit, Wayne County Prosecutor's Office, Michigan

If you're involved with any sort of sexual homicide case, order this book immediately, as it is far and away the most in depth work focused solely on sex-related murder.
- PI Magazine, Sept./Oct. 2004

If youre involved with any sort of sexual homicide case, order this book immediately, as it is far and away the most in depth work focused solely on sex-related murder.
- PI Magazine, Sept./Oct. 2004

Im grateful that the law enforcement community now has this book as a resource to help explain these deviant crimes and as always grateful that Vern continues his vigilant watch against the forces of darkness. Im glad that hes on my team working for God.
-Donna Pendergast, Principal Attorney-Homicide Unit, Wayne County Prosecutors Office, Michigan

In this 'no excuses' analysis of the psychology of evil, Vernon brings his extensive expertise and knowledge to dissect the thought processes that underlie these sex offenders. By detailing the case histories of specific murders as well as the practical knowledge he has gleaned from thousands of investigations, Vernon provides critical information that can explain the inexplicable at crime scenes. … No police academy, police department, or prosecutor's office should be without this important and informative work. If murder, as Shakespeare suggests, does speak, Vernon has provided all of us with the amplifier through which we will hear its voice.
- From the Introduction by Jeanine Pirro, District Attorney, Westchester County District Attorney's Office, White Plains, New York

In this no excuses analysis of the psychology of evil, Vernon brings his extensive expertise and knowledge to dissect the thought processes that underlie these sex offenders. By detailing the case histories of specific murders as well as the practical knowledge he has gleaned from thousands of investigations, Vernon provides critical information that can explain the inexplicable at crime scenes. … No police academy, police department, or prosecutors office should be without this important and informative work. If murder, as Shakespeare suggests, does speak, Vernon has provided all of us with the amplifier through which we will hear its voice.
- From the Introduction by Jeanine Pirro, District Attorney, Westchester County District Attorneys Office, White Plains, New York

It is unfortunate that cases like these are occurring with more and more frequency. However, it is now very fortunate that we have a resource and reference book to draw upon should we encounter these monsters in our jurisdiction. Vernon's new investigative text, Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives draws together countless sources from literature and investigative files into one authoritative source. This book is a must have (not just must read) for any detective or prosecutor who deals with these types of cases.
- Jim Yontz, Senior Trial Attorney
Second Judicial District Attorney's Office
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87102

It is unfortunate that cases like these are occurring with more and more frequency. However, it is now very fortunate that we have a resource and reference book to draw upon should we encounter these monsters in our jurisdiction. Vernons new investigative text, Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives draws together countless sources from literature and investigative files into one authoritative source. This book is a must have (not just must read) for any detective or prosecutor who deals with these types of cases.
- Jim Yontz, Senior Trial Attorney
Second Judicial District Attorneys Office
Albuquerque, New Mexico 87102

Several experienced prosecutors in our Violent Crimes division have reviewed this book. All have been impressed with the content but more importantly they have been impressed with the context. They way the material is presented and information woven through the various disciplines has shed new light on the subjects and presented new ways to prosecute and investigate these cases.

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.

This is probably the best book I have ever read in this topic area. …detailed description of terminology, case examples, and references provide the reader with an in-depth knowledge of investigation of sexually-related death.
Dr. Henry C. Lee, Chief Emeritus, Department of Public Safety Division of Scientific Services, Connecticut, USA

This is probably the best book I have ever read in this topic area. …detailed description of terminology, case examples, and references provide the reader with an in-depth knowledge of investigation of sexually-related death.
Dr. Henry C. Lee, Chief Emeritus, Department of Public Safety Division of Scientific Services, Connecticut, USA

Unlike many investigators, Geberth has paid close attention to the scientific literature on the PCL-R conception of psychopathy and, by integrating it with his own extensive experience and clinical insights, has produce and outstanding chapter on practical applications to criminal investigation. His discussions … are right on the mark, as is his appreciation of the behavior of psychopaths during the investigative process. … Some investigators with the … FBI … and intelligence agencies in North America and several other countries currently are developing their own protocols for applying psychopathy to crime scene analysis, interviewing, and intelligence work. Their efforts are consistent with Geberth's discussions and advice, and there is little doubt that they will derive considerable benefit from his work. Indeed … any investigator who deals with psychopaths in any capacity would do well to become familiar with his work.
- Dr. Robert D. Hare, Ph. D.

Unlike many investigators, Geberth has paid close attention to the scientific literature on the PCL-R conception of psychopathy and, by integrating it with his own extensive experience and clinical insights, has produce and outstanding chapter on practical applications to criminal investigation. His discussions … are right on the mark, as is his appreciation of the behavior of psychopaths during the investigative process. … Some investigators with the … FBI … and intelligence agencies in North America and several other countries currently are developing their own protocols for applying psychopathy to crime scene analysis, interviewing, and intelligence work. Their efforts are consistent with Geberths discussions and advice, and there is little doubt that they will derive considerable benefit from his work. Indeed … any investigator who deals with psychopaths in any capacity would do well to become familiar with his work.
- Dr. Robert D. Hare, Ph. D.

Vern Geberth …describes the evil of the sexual criminal and outlines the investigative path to that criminal's identification, apprehension and prosecution. … He brings to this publication the same style of common sense, practicality and graphic simplicity that characterized Practical Homicide Investigation. … It is, quite simply, the best and most thorough text on the subject of sex-related homicide I have seen.
- From the Foreword by Larry Welch, Director, Kansas Bureau of Investigation

Vern Geberth …describes the evil of the sexual criminal and outlines the investigative path to that criminals identification, apprehension and prosecution. … He brings to this publication the same style of common sense, practicality and graphic simplicity that characterized Practical Homicide Investigation. … It is, quite simply, the best and most thorough text on the subject of sex-related homicide I have seen.
- From the Foreword by Larry Welch, Director, Kansas Bureau of Investigation

Vernon Geberth has written a new testament to the Bible of homicide investigation. The literature in this area has been sparse and difficult to locate at best. In this book Vernon draws together many various disciplines to make a complete resource and reference book for investigators and prosecutors.

Vernon has done it again with the definitive tome on violent sexual assault investigations. This comprehensive volume is an incredible compilation that exhausts the subject. 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.

Vernon has done it again with the definitive tome on violent sexual assault investigations. This comprehensive volume is an incredible compilation that exhausts the subject. Verns 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.

…Vernon's new textbook entitled Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives is an incredible 800-page book that covers a number of subjects far beyond [the author's] Practical Homicide Investigation. His vast investigative experience is evident in the clear explanations he offers regarding how the mind of a sexual predator functions and the most recent technology available to bring these unique and very difficult investigations to a successful conclusion.
- New York Post

…by far the most detailed and informative resource a homicide and sex crimes investigator could wish for. 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.
Detective Sergeant Eric Schroeder, Michigan State Police Violent Crimes Unit, Michigan, USA

…the most comprehensive and up-to-date text regarding sexual death investigation that I have come across. This book is a gift to the law enforcement community and a contribution of historical importance.
Ronald Turco, M.D., P.C., Past President - The American Academy of Psychoanalysis, Oregon, USA

…Vernons new textbook entitled Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives is an incredible 800-page book that covers a number of subjects far beyond [the authors] Practical Homicide Investigation. His vast investigative experience is evident in the clear explanations he offers regarding how the mind of a sexual predator functions and the most recent technology available to bring these unique and very difficult investigations to a successful conclusion.
- New York Post

…by far the most detailed and informative resource a homicide and sex crimes investigator could wish for. If I cant have Geberth himself standing next to me at a crime scene, at least I know that his works will never be more than an arms reach away.
Detective Sergeant Eric Schroeder, Michigan State Police Violent Crimes Unit, Michigan, USA

…the most comprehensive and up-to-date text regarding sexual death investigation that I have come across. This book is a gift to the law enforcement community and a contribution of historical importance.
Ronald Turco, M.D., P.C., Past President - The American Academy of Psychoanalysis, Oregon, USA

Product Description

Sex-related homicides claim victims from all walks of life, be they men or women, lovers or strangers, elders or children. They are some of the most horrific crimes imaginable, and unlike robbery-homicides or drug-related murders, the motives behind them are often not clear-cut.For all homicide cases, professional detectives must have practical experience in homicide investigation, but to solve sex-related murders they must also possess a keen understanding of human behavior patterns and human sexuality. With 38 years of practical and clinical experience author Vernon J. Geberth has that understanding.The renowned investigator and author of Practical Homicide Investigation, Geberth now shares his expertise related to the unique characteristics of sex-related homicides. In Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives he:·Comprehensively discusses human sexuality and sexual deviance·Analyzes the significance of fantasy·Presents the crucial dynamics involved in the search of the crime scene·Introduces the latest information on the application of DNA technology to sex crimes·Includes investigative checklists, clinical references, and case examples·Analyzes the typology of offenders and reveals how to determine the "signature aspect"·Provides an understanding of the significance of sexual offenders' behaviorsThe mission of every homicide investigator is to bring justice to the deceased and their surviving family. Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation: Practical and Clinical Perspectives stresses the basics, indicates the practicalities of certain investigative techniques, and provides you with patterns upon which to build a solid foundation for a prosecutable case.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 856 pages
• Publisher: CRC; 1 edition (May 28, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0849312817
• ISBN-13: 978-0849312816
• Product Dimensions: 9.3 x 6.8 x 2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 3.6 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.9 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (10 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #798,294 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Past President - The American Society of Pyschoanalysis, December 1, 2005

By	Dr. Ronald M. Turco (Washington state) - See all my reviews

Vernon Geberth has provided law enforcement with another major contribution with his book "Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation-Practical and Clinical Perspectives." The text is specific to death investigation, up to date, state of the art, accurate and easy to read. Although the material is oriented towards the serious homicide investigator it is valuable to all police personnel (uniformed and non-uniformed), because of its valuable insight into crime scene investigation and preservation by the initial responding officers as well as its contribution to in enhancing any officer who wishes to advance thru the ranks.

In addition to providing valuable insight to the initial responding officers in the preservation of the crime scene it provides knowledge to ancillary police personnel as they may be called upon to assist the chief crime scene investigator.

The case material is reflective of Geberth's remarkable insight into aberrant human behavior and the significance of such concepts as linkage and "linkage blindness" in investigative protocol. The concepts of "signature" and profiling are expanded and built on sound psychological principals. The assessment of psychopathy and sociopathic personality represents the latest understanding of both psychological and law enforcement perspectives.

The section on child related homicide is especially timely and one of the most comprehensive presentations I have seen anywhere. In each section the author has integrated behavioral aspects with a contemporary analysis of state of the art criminal forensic techniques. He has consulted the major contributors to each subject allowing the reader a comprehensive view of the work of leaders in the fields of both law enforcement and psychology.

There are so many seemingly subtle and direct admonitions and directives that one has to read this book thoroughly to realize how thoroughly researched the material is. Properly studied, this volume will not only keep the homicide investigator out of trouble but will enhance his investigative ability enormously contributing to outcomes.

The specific suggestions for interrogation have proven their value over time in countless cases. For example, setting personal feelings aside and allowing the suspect to develop his subterfuge and perception of being "smarter" than the police has proven enormously effective in case after case.

The chapter on crime scene investigation is the best I have seen in the forensic literature, being clearly written, concise, contemporary and comprehensive. This chapter alone is worth the purchase of the book.

As a former biochemist I found the chapter on DNA well researched and very practical. The newest techniques for utilizing DNA are expanded and discussed along with the historical development of this remarkable forensic technique. The author demonstrates how DNA is the most important advance in law enforcement since fingerprinting and the text comes alive with his enthusiasm and practical sense of application. The reader is transported to the crime scene where the complex mysteries become commonplace.

The "hard science," techniques of preserving and analyzing evidence and administrative procedures are interwoven with the behavioral aspects of a large assortment of crimes. This allows the reader to gain an understanding for a solid foundation to prosecute especially with regard to crime scene linkage and signature.

The thought processes of a serial rapist or killer are just one example of how the author
integrates material from various sources including the updated concepts of criminal behavioral profiling and its associated psychodynamics, signature and "MO," with the issues of control, dominance and sadism.

Throughout the book there are references to recent Supreme Court decisions regarding issues associated with search warrants and the involuntary confinement of sexually violent predators, as well as legal defense tactics in use, all of which compliment the investigating officer's repertoire of knowledge.

This book took courage to write and the author does not mince words or principles! This volume is a must for every homicide detective and should be studied daily. "Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation" is the most comprehensive and up to date text regarding sexual death investigation that I have come across in the forensic and psychiatric literature. This book is a gift to the law enforcement community and a contribution of historical importance.

Ronald Turco, M.D.
Past President-The American Academy of Psychoanalysis (New York, NY)
Past president-The Society of Psychoanalytic Physicians (Washington D.C.)
Reserve Police Officer-Beaverton, Oregon Police Department (25 years)

5 of 5 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent work, June 22, 2003

By	Leaner (Atlanta, GA) - See all my reviews

Sex-Related Homicide and Death Investigation is a must read for every profiler, homicide and sex crimes detective, social worker, prosecutor, researcher, and student of sexual homicide. With both formal education and a wealth of experience, Vernon Geberth delivers an easy to read, straight-forward look into the minds of sexual killers. The book delves not only into the psyche of these offenders but also addresses how to catch them. Horrific case after horrific case is presented to demonstrate how these killers gain access to their victims, why they do it, and how police can successfully investigate. In addition, Geberth addresses the wider problem of how a lack of personal responsbility in this society permits the type of narcissistic and psychopathic behavior displayed by sexual murderers. Everyone serious about examining sex-related homicides should read and re-read this excellent book.

3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The most comprehensive book of its kind.Do not leave the stationhouse without it!!, December 1, 2005

By	Anthony D. Magnetto (Troy, NY United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

Vernon Geberth did not just write a book entitled SEX RELATED HOMICIDE AND DEATH INVESTIGATION: PRACTICAL AND CLINICAL PERSPECTIVES. He has created a portable, hand held training simulator for the response to and investigation of the sex-related homicide.
As the reader makes his way through each chapter,you are hit with the same initial shock and revulsion of a sex-related homicide scene. By providing the reader with dozens of photos, analysis, techniques and checklists, Geberth brings you as close to a real time crime scene as possible.In creating this atmosphere Vernon prepares the reader, whether cop or prosecutor, when called upon to investigate the sex related homicide, to professionally deal with the depravity and inhumanity of this evil act and to maintain your professional objective and in so doing focus your efforts toward the only goal that matters "...to see that justice is done not only for the deceased but for the surviving family as well."