Forest Arsonists: Criminal Profiling and its Implications for Intervention and Prevention

  • Cristina Soeiro
  • Raquel Guerra

Abstract

The main aims of this study are the characterisation of criminal, psychological and social aspects of the Portuguese forest arsonists and the identification of their most important criminal characteristics. The research variables include criminal behaviour, socio-demographic and psychological and juridical-penal aspects. Results from a sample of 452 offenders show a typology characterised by four types of forest arsonists: instrumental-retaliatory; instrumental-beneficial; expressive-clinical history; expressive-fire attraction. The subsequent need for differentiated intervention and prevention strategies is discussed.

Published
2014-12-01
How to Cite
Soeiro, C., & Guerra, R. (2014). Forest Arsonists: Criminal Profiling and its Implications for Intervention and Prevention. European Law Enforcement Research Bulletin, (11), 34-40. Retrieved from http://bulletin.cepol.europa.eu/index.php/bulletin/article/view/104