What can an MO help you to do if two or more crimes appear to be committed by the same suspect?

An MO, or modus operandi, refers to the pattern of behavior or methods used by a suspect to commit a crime. By analyzing the MO of crimes that appear to be linked, investigators can identify common characteristics or techniques that are unique to that suspect. This can include specific behaviors, the types of targets chosen, or particular methods of operation.

When two or more crimes share similar MOs, it greatly assists in narrowing the field of suspects. Investigators can compare the details of the crimes against known offenders in their database, such as previous convictions or documented MOs. This focused approach allows law enforcement to concentrate their resources and efforts on individuals who have a known tendency to commit crimes in a similar manner, making it far more efficient than randomly increasing the number of suspects.

Identifying the crime scene, while important, is not directly assisted by the MO, and gathering more evidence typically occurs after a suspect has been identified. Therefore, using the MO is a crucial investigative tool that enables law enforcement to refine their search and put forth a more targeted effort in apprehending the responsible individual.