NCJ Number
147032
Journal
Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 21 Issue: 6 Dated: (1993) Pages: 573-582
Date Published
1993
Length
10 pages
Annotation
Case studies from 121 homicides committed in Australia over a 2-year period are examined in terms of the social dynamics that brought the victim and offender together rather than simply categorizing them as stranger or acquaintance killings.
Abstract
Data for the 121 homicides reported to the Office of the Coroner in Victoria, Australia in 1985 and 1986 were used to study the category of homicides classified as "stranger killings." Researchers prepared a case study for each case and then identified qualitative aspects of each case that best described the social interaction between the victim and assailant. Three major categories emerged that accounted for most of the killings. The first category involved victims and offenders who were intimately acquainted. The second involved homicides that resulted from confrontations. A third group included homicides that were committed during the commission of another crime. Several other smaller categories were identified. The researchers, however, found no need for a separate category for stranger homicides. What have traditionally been considered stranger homicides often involve some interaction between the victim and offender and can be classified into one or more of the other categories identified. It is suggested that rather that focusing on the concept of the stranger, attention should be focused on the social interaction that brought the victim and assailant together. The author recognizes the existence of a political agenda that benefits from the public fear of being victimized by a complete stranger.