Offence Pathways of Sexual Homicide Perpetrators

Offending pathways of sexual homicide perpetrators were explored with a focus on whether the pathways for those with a previous conviction for rape or attempted rape differed from those who had no such convictions. The criteria for sexual homicide was taken from the UK National Offender Management Service (NOMS) Offender Assessment System (OASys) research database, and included murders where a sexual element and/or a sexual motivation was evidenced, suspected or admitted. A total of 129 non-serial male perpetrators of sexual homicide of females where the victim was aged 14 years or over, who had been convicted and served a custodial sentence within UK Prison Service, were included. The analyses used in the study evaluated cognitive problems, sexual and behavioural interests, modus operandi and crime scene characteristics. The data was obtained from the Sex Offender Treatment Programme (SOTP) databases and the electronic Lifer files held within the Public Protection Unit Database (PPUD). The NOMS Quality and Outcomes Team supports effective policy development and operational delivery within the National Offender Management Service and Ministry of Justice by conducting and commissioning high-quality social research and statistical analysis. We aim to publish information to add to the evidence base and assist with informed debate.