Non-fatal shootings, victim cooperativeness, and case clearance

• In Event: Patterns of Firearms Violence Across Four Cities

Abstract

Gun violence continues to plague American cities. And, while homicides are headline grabbers, they are indeed rare events. Despite occurring at much higher rates than homicides, there is a dearth of reliable research on non-fatal shootings in the criminological literature. Research in Indianapolis, Indiana reveals that named shooting suspects are rare, making it difficult for detectives to solve cases. Victim cooperativeness is also an issue as victims are not always willing to aid in the investigation of their cases. Drawing on a sample of over 800 non-fatal shooting incidents, this research will examine victim cooperativeness with law enforcement and its effect on case clearance rates. Common demographic variables will be examined as well as shooting motive.

Authors

• Natalie Kroovand Hipple, Indiana University

• Lauren Magee, Michigan State University