Serial Rapists at Work: A Sociological Examination of Offender and Victim Occupation, Victim Selection, and Method of Attack

• In Event: Poster Session

Abstract

Serial rape is one of the least studied and least understood predatory crimes. Few empirical studies exist on this crime and little work has been done to develop a sociological profile of serial rapists and their victims. Creating sociological profiles of serial rape offenders and their victims allows us to identify individuals with the opportunities to offend as well as those who are at an increased risk of victimization. Using a routine activity approach, the current paper seeks to analyze the occupations of offenders and victims as a variable in these sociological profiles. More specifically, the current research seeks to analyze the opportunities that offenders are afforded to commit their crimes as a result of their occupations as well as victims’ increased risks of victimization. This analysis is also concerned with the ways that offenders’ occupations influence their methods of attack when they assault their victims. Using these sociological profiles, the current research seeks to inform policies which are aimed at protecting high-risk victim populations as well as decreasing offenders’ opportunities to commit serial rape.

Authors

• Clara Mae Fesmire, Ohio University

• Lauren Elizabeth Wright, Ohio University

• Tom Vander Ven, Ohio University

• Jona Moberg, Ohio University

• Sam Regas, Ohio University