Up to Markowitz's Rant
Although I recognize that profiling is neither perfect nor an "exact
science", it has consistently aided in the capture and prosecution of
violent criminals. Your article asserts that the only evidence against
Wayne Bertram Williams was the supposed 'profile' offered by John Douglas.
I am rather certain that you did not intend to portray that, but let me
enumerate the evidence for you in case you don't have access to it:
1. The fibers found on at least 5 of the bodies were directly linked to the
carpet of Wayne Williams' bedroom rug.
< BR >2. Samples taken from Wayne Williams' car proved conclusively that at least
6 of the victims were in his car.
< BR >3. Williams' story never seemed to add up and he couldn't produce a solid
alibi for either of the killings he was charged with.
If you want to know if profiling is effective, ask the family of Sharie faye Smith, Mary Frances Stoner or Debra Helmick. They can now have some peace of mind thanks to John Douglas and the Investigative Support Unit (ISU) in Quantico. Now, if Mr Jewell was inconvienced by being placed under suspicion, that's a legitimate beef, but not one that renders profiling a "hocus pocus" science. Hundreds of Americans, perhaps yourself, are alive today because of the hard work and dedication of the ISU. Actually let me go one step further, if it weren't for the ISU then Wayne Williams might still be at large, so might Oba Chandler, or even Robert Hansen. John Douglas nearly lost his life in 1983 because of the severe case load he was handling.
Also, remember that profiling is often used as a means to narrow the focus of an investigation. It is not an after the fact type of tool used to corroborate the prosecution's case. Honestly, if someone fits a given profile and is innocent, then the truth will be discovered sooner than later. Plus, a profile must be accompnaied by some forms of evidence to substantiate the charge. No rational person, after reviewing the Wayne William's case can say that "there must be some mistake." The evidence against him is compelling.
Once again, if not for the ISU America would be in a much more vulnerable position.
respectfully,
Anthony Licari
Copyright © 1997 by Anthony Licari KINLO@worldnet.att.net All Rights Reserved.
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