Limitations and Challenges of Analyzing Animal Cruelty with FBI's NIBRS

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Abstract

Since 2016, incidents of animal cruelty have been categorized as 'crimes against society' in the FBI's (NIBRS) database. This inclusion results from concerted lobbying efforts by the National Sheriffs’ Association, NASEM, and other organizations. At the Animal Cruelty Committee of the NSA, we scrutinize the NIBRS data semi-annually, complemented by direct inputs from the CJIS and the FBI liaison officer, to assess trends and strategize improvements.

In 2016-2022, there has been a marked uptick in incidents, with figures soaring from 1,258 to 20,559, reflecting an increase of 1,534.26%. We don't ascribe this sharp rise to escalating crime rates or enhancements in data collection methodologies, but rather to additional reporting agencies.

A majority of perpetrators fall within the 21-40 years age bracket. In 2022, men constituted 57.89% of the perpetrators, and women 36% — a ratio that has remained consistent over the years.

A geographical analysis reveals a persistent pattern: 70% of the incidents occurred at homes, with streets accounting for another 8%. The spectrum of associated offenses included assault (36%), destruction/vandalism of property (15%), and weapon law violations (11%).

Authors

• Nuria Querol, Profiling & Crime Behaviour Analysis Group, University of Barcelona

• Anthony Pinizzotto, Senior Instructor BSU, FBI

• Àngel Cuquerella, Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences of Catalonia

• John Thompson, Animal Cruelty Committee, National Sheriffs' Association