An FBI profiler is a person who works for the FBI and analyzes criminal cases in order to create a psychological, behavioral, and legal profile of a criminal. The majority of people believe the FBI employs profilers, but this is incorrect. A Special Agent assigned to the National Center for the Analysis of Violent Crime (NCAVC) at Quantico, Virginia, is commonly referred to as a “profiler” with the FBI.
The FBI profiler, also known as a Special Agent, creates criminal profiles based on observations and statistical probability. Criminal profiling is the art of compiling a criminal’s personality and conducting in-depth analysis based on how the crime was committed. Any evidence left at the crime scene, statements from eyewitnesses, and statistics from similar crimes are all taken into account the profiler.
Because most FBI profilers have a psychology background, one of the profiler’s responsibilities is to interview convicted felons in order to gain insight into the motives and patterns of other criminals. Criminals who have been convicted of violent crimes such as rape and murder can provide crucial insight into the minds of other criminals. Profilers also speak with victims or families of deceased victims in order to obtain additional information about the crimes.
Another aspect of an FBI profiler’s job entails learning new methods for determining how a criminal thinks and reacts to various stimuli. Conducting simulation activities is one of these research methods. Hostage and anti-terrorism simulations are two examples of simulation exercises that can be used for research and analysis setting up various outcomes.
After compiling a reasonable profile of the person accused of committing a crime, the FBI profiler’s job is to track down the criminal. The profiler takes the information gathered and searches databases for people who might fit the description. In addition, the profiler revisits the crime scenes in search of any evidence that the profiler or the crime lab may have overlooked. Local law enforcement officials will occasionally contact the FBI to let them know that new information has come to light or that they believe a new crime is linked to the case. In many cases, the FBI agent will have to look through old cold cases to see if the criminal profile matches any previous crimes in the system.
A college degree, preferably in criminal justice, psychology, or forensic science, is required for an FBI profiler. Most profilers have worked in the military, law enforcement, or forensic investigation in some capacity, particularly with violent crimes. A criminal profiler should also be able to conduct research and make logical deductions. Before applying as a Special Agent, people must have at least three years of experience as an agent, according to the FBI’s website.