Journal Published Online: 17 December 2003
Volume 49, Issue 1

Homicide Victim/Offender Relationship in Florida Medical Examiner District 8

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

This study examined the correlations between victim/offender relationship and three variables: motive, weapon choice, and number of injuries inflicted. Empirical relationship and motive categories were used. The sample consisted of 57 intentional homicide cases from Florida Medical Examiner District 8 between the years 1992 and 1996. Relationships were divided into primary and secondary categories. Primary relationships included intimates, relatives, and friends; secondary relationships included acquaintances and strangers. Motives were classified as romantic dispute, argument/conflict, revenge, or felony type; weapons as firearm or contact; and number of injuries inflicted as single or multiple. A significant correlation was found between victim/offender relationship and homicide motive; however, the revenge and felony type motive categories did not differ. Unexpectedly, no correlation was found between victim/offender relationship and either weapon choice or number of injuries inflicted. Further study is needed of the interactions between homicide victim/offender relationship and motive, weapon selection, and number of injuries inflicted.

Author Information

Drawdy, SM
University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
Myers, WC
University of Florida, Gainesville, FL
Pages: 5
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JFS2003006
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS2003006