Journal Published Online: 01 March 2000
Volume 45, Issue 2

Clinical and Forensic Indicators of “Suicide by Cop”

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

This paper reviews the literature pertaining to the phenomenon of ‘suicide by cop”—any incident in which a suicidal individual attempts to get law enforcement to kill him. This article defines the term “suicide by cop,” discusses the various motivations of individuals who engage in this type of behavior, presents the risk factors and indicators for suicide and violence, and describes specific indicators for suicide by cop. Proper recognition of these events, prior and subsequent to their occurrence, has important implications for prevention, officer safety, equivocal death analysis and psychological autopsy, civil litigation, criminal justice proceedings, and community stability. This paper presents seven case studies which demonstrate the clinical and forensic indicators of this phenomenon.

Author Information

Mohandie, K
Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles, CA
Meloy, JR
University of California, San Diego, San Diego, CA
Pages: 6
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JFS14690J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS14690J