Criminology
Gabriella Herrera, Gabriella.Herrera@ttu.edu
Texas Tech University, with Dr. Zoe Andrews
True Crime and the Power of Perspective: Analyzing Ratings and Reviews of First-Person Narratives
True crime as a genre has grown significantly in popularity, particularly in mini- drama series that combine psychologicalstorytelling with dramatized accounts ofreal criminal cases (Cornett, 2024). Despite this growth, limited research hasexamined how first-person narrative techniques, including the use of sensationalism, specifically shape viewer perception and emotional engagement. These portrayals may encourage parasocial connections and viewer empathy (Horton & Wohl, 1956). This research investigates how first-person narrative portrayals in true crime television series influence audience ratings and reviews, and what recurring themes within these portrayals are associated with viewer receptions. A structured set of viewing questions will be used to guide the analysis by focusing on how offenders and victims are portrayed, the emotional tone of the narrative, and whether the story is told from the perspective of the victim or the offender. Although data collection is ongoing, literary findings suggest that series portraying offenders as emotionally complex or humanized receive higher audience ratings. These portrayals may encourage parasocial connections and viewer empathy.
Gilberto Castro, gcastro22fl@ollusa.edu
Our Lady of the Lake University, with Dr. Jazmine Garcia
Thinking Like the Predator: Cognitive Profiling and Behavioral Analysis in Serial Killer Investigation
This study explores the psychological and tactical triggers of a serial killer's mind to commit repeated acts of violence. While traditional profiling methods often emphasize a serial killer’s demographic characteristics and behavioral histories– this research shifts the lens towards the immediate stimuli influencing violent behavior during the act of the murder. Through the analysis of several case studies and transcript interviews with notorious serial killers, the researcher integrates psychological theories to identify common tactical triggers. The goal is to enhance criminal profiling models by prioritizing behavioral context over static characteristics; ultimately providing law enforcement with improved strategies for investigation and apprehension. Current profiling techniques are limited because they do not have predictive models for ongoing investigations that outline how the serial killer mind operates. Much like technical warfare, to be able to overcome your enemy, you must know how they think; this research aims to apply that mentality to apprehending and understanding serial killers.
Brigitte Acevedo, Brigitte.acevedo@students.tamuk.edu
Texas A&M University Kingsville, with Dr. Kendra Huff
Analyzing Crime in Business: Money Laundering
The research explores the patterns of money laundering in the United States by comparing suspicious activity reports(SARs) filed in border states along the U.S.-Mexico and U.S.-Canada borders with those in central states. Money laundering causes serious threats to economic balance and public safety by allowing organized crime, drug trafficking, andterrorism to operate within and across national borders. Using a quantitative research design, this study utilizes Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) SAR data from the years 2020-2024 to analyze geographic differences in reported suspected financial crimes. At-test analysis is conducted to determine whether financial institutions in border states filemore SARs than those in central states. The study found that the number of SARs filed regarding money laundering are significantly higher in states bordering Mexico than interior states and those bordering Canada. The research aims to raise understanding of how geographic and economic factors affect financial crime patterns, providing helpful insights for future studies, informing financial standards, and addressing border-related challenges.