What does "criminal profiling" involve?

Criminal profiling involves the analysis of a criminal's behavior patterns to predict future crimes. This technique is utilized by law enforcement to develop a psychological and behavioral profile of an offender based on specific patterns observed in their criminal activities. By examining how a criminal operates, including their modus operandi and psychological triggers, investigators can make informed predictions about future offenses, which can aid in identifying and apprehending suspects. This process often includes considerations of various factors, such as the crime's location, the method employed, and victimology, all of which contribute to understanding the criminal's motivations and predicting their next move. It is a valuable tool in criminal investigations as it helps in narrowing down suspects and provides insights that guide detectives in their work.