Episode 395: Greg Cooper - Criminal Profiling and the Mind of Human Predators

Cleared Hot with host Andy Stumpf delves deep into the nuanced world of criminal profiling with guest Greg Cooper. In this enlightening episode, Greg shares his extensive experience in the FBI's Behavioral Science Unit, his transition into founding the Cold Case Foundation, and his insights into understanding the minds of human predators.

1. Greg Cooper's Journey into Criminal Profiling

Greg Cooper recounts his path from serving as a patrolman and detective in Provo, Utah, to aspiring to join the FBI. Despite initial setbacks due to a hiring freeze, Greg's determination led him to eventually secure a position in the FBI in April 1985. His primary goal was clear: to become a criminal profiler.

Greg Cooper [04:12]: "When I joined the FBI, my whole focus was to become a profiler. I knew that John Douglas was the man leading the program."

2. Understanding Criminal Profiling: MO vs Signature

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the distinction between a criminal's Modus Operandi (MO) and their signature. While MO refers to the logical and necessary behaviors to execute a crime effectively, the signature reflects the offender's personal imprint, often unnecessary for the act itself.

Greg Cooper [50:25]: "MO is all about avoiding detection. Signature requires the offender to spend more time, be more involved, taking the chance of being seen."

3. Evolution of Criminal Behavior and Impact of Technology

Both Andy and Greg touch upon how advancements in technology and the pervasive nature of the internet have transformed the landscape of criminal behavior. The accessibility of information and exposure to various stimuli at a young age may contribute to the emergence of more sophisticated and heinous crimes.

Greg Cooper [20:24]: "With access to the internet, children are exposed to things they shouldn't be, which may contribute to a generation of some of the most heinous types of violence we've ever seen."

4. The Cold Case Foundation: Bridging Gaps in Law Enforcement

Post his tenure with the FBI, Greg founded the Cold Case Foundation, aiming to assist law enforcement agencies in solving unsolved homicides and missing persons cases. The foundation leverages a multidisciplinary team of volunteers, including former law enforcement experts, to provide insights without incurring additional costs for the agencies involved.

Greg Cooper [67:05]: "We've created a cadre of experts from law enforcement all over the country who volunteer their time to help solve these cold cases."

5. Success Stories and Case Studies

Greg shares compelling anecdotes illustrating the effectiveness of profiling in solving cold cases. One notable example involves a double homicide in Montana, where DNA evidence from cigarette butts ultimately led to the perpetrator's identification after decades.

Greg Cooper [80:29]: "We took the DNA from the cigarette butts and ran it through CODIS. It wasn't in the database, so we turned to genealogy DNA, which led us to two brothers. One was deceased, but we managed to identify the other as the perpetrator."

6. Challenges and Future of Criminal Profiling

Despite advancements, Greg highlights several challenges facing the field, including resource limitations, reduced emphasis on research, and the growing number of cold cases. He emphasizes the importance of continued research and collaboration to maintain the accuracy and integrity of profiling techniques.

Greg Cooper [15:23]: "There is no excuse not to research and continue to maintain a level of accuracy and integrity in the system."

7. Serial Killers: Male vs Female Profiling

An intriguing segment discusses the differences between male and female serial killers. Greg notes that while male offenders often exhibit overt aggression, female offenders tend to be more calculated and methodical, making them harder to profile.

Greg Cooper [120:50]: "Females are much more calculated, planning, and methodical in the way in which they have seen them act these things out."

8. Advice for Personal Safety

Concluding the episode, Greg offers valuable advice to listeners on enhancing their personal safety. By understanding victimology and assessing one's lifestyle and environment, individuals can identify and mitigate potential risks.

Greg Cooper [132:24]: "Stay in low risk. Once you hit high risk, you're forfeiting your power and influence to become a victim of a crime."

9. Greg Cooper's Personal Reflections

Throughout the conversation, Greg reflects on the emotional toll of profiling and working on distressing cases. He emphasizes the importance of coping mechanisms like dark humor and faith in maintaining mental well-being amidst the challenges of the job.

Greg Cooper [89:39]: "I'm confident that there is good in the world, and I think for me that's made all the difference."

10. Supporting the Cold Case Foundation

Greg concludes by encouraging listeners to support the Cold Case Foundation through donations, volunteering, or submitting cases. He underscores the foundation's mission to collaborate with law enforcement and bring closure to families affected by unsolved crimes.

Greg Cooper [154:30]: "People can donate to the organization, volunteer, buy the book, and submit cases. We're here to help law enforcement agencies solve these cases at no cost."

Notable Quotes:

• Greg Cooper [04:12]: "When I joined the FBI, my whole focus was to become a profiler. I knew that John Douglas was the man leading the program."

• Greg Cooper [50:25]: "MO is all about avoiding detection. Signature requires the offender to spend more time, be more involved, taking the chance of being seen."

• Greg Cooper [67:05]: "We've created a cadre of experts from law enforcement all over the country who volunteer their time to help solve these cold cases."

• Greg Cooper [132:24]: "Stay in low risk. Once you hit high risk, you're forfeiting your power and influence to become a victim of a crime."

Final Thoughts

Episode 395 offers a profound exploration into the intricate processes of criminal profiling and the relentless pursuit of justice for unsolved cases. Greg Cooper's expertise and dedication illuminate the path from understanding criminal behavior to actively solving cold cases, making this episode a must-listen for enthusiasts and professionals alike.