Analyzing Gendered Differences in Homicide Cases: A Longitudinal Investigation of Offender Arrest Histories in Chicago

• In Event: Gender & Violent Offending

Abstract

In 2023, 14% of homicide offenders in Chicago were women compared to 85% of homicide offenders who were men; both demonstrating unique prior arrest record patterns. The current study descriptively explores homicides perpetrated by male and female offenders with criminal records in Chicago from 2008-2023. We compare victim, offender, and case characteristics between the two groups and elaborate on the criminal justice process in Chicago. This study also uniquely compares types of prior criminal offenses by offender gender. Results uniquely elaborate on the profile of perpetrators, the contextual characteristics of the event, and criminal behaviors prior to the homicide.

Authors

• Sharhonda Chea, Iowa State University

• Shannon B. Harper, Iowa State University

• Colin Larter, Iowa State University