A research review of public figure threats, approaches, attacks, and assassinations in the United States

Author: Meloy JR / James DV / Farnham FR, et al
Publication: Journal of Forensic Sciences
Topics: Crime Homicide U.S./National
Keywords: UNITED States attack firearm public figure threat
Bibliographic information +

The authors examined studies that researched threats, approaches, attacks, and assassinations of public figures in the U.S. They found that the motivations of perpetrators vary widely, but the concern is most likely a personal and emotional issue. In the case of attack, the weapon of choice is usually a firearm. Perpetrators may intend not only to kill their target, but also commit suicide at the hands of law enforcement agencies. Generally, direct threats to public figures are unusual and are most often not followed up by an approach or attack.