The late nights in the office are hard, but I prefer to be busy than go home and have nothing to do in my loneliness. That's why I always leave the bullpen last, and I usually don't mind it. Dave doesn't believe me but I couldn't care less.
A knock on my office door causes me to look up from the reports I was filling out. I see JJ standing by the door. "I thought I told you to go home" I say
"You did, I am on my way out. I just want to leave this to you" she replies as she leaves three files on my desk. "Three murders in Rusk County, Texas. It came in today. I don't believe it is urgent enough for us to go there, because the murders have taken place over the course of 7 years. But I think you'd want to take a look and maybe consult on it" she explains
"Thank you. I will check it later"
"Or tomorrow" she corrects me since it's already dark out
"Right, of course. Have a good night, JJ"
"You too, sir" she replies and goes.
By the time I finish my reports, the bullpen is empty. I look at the pile of files JJ brought me earlier and I sigh. That moment I decide to take them home with me and keep myself busy with those before going to sleep. So, I put them in my briefcase and lock my office on my way out.
I grab some take-out on my way home and I eat after a quick shower. I spread the files from Rusk in chronological order on my table and go through them one by one. The first one happened 7 years ago, the second 14 months ago, and the third one happened last week. I read Sheriff Knox's notes on each one of them, but I notice that the name is changing. The first case is signed by Sheriff Oliver Knox -who I know-, but the last two are signed by Sheriff Jules Knox.
I take my phone in my hand and I google Sheriff Knox from Texas. By the photos that come up, they definitely look related. The first article I come across is dated two years ago and is titled: Jules Marie Knox, daughter of former Houston County Sheriff Oliver Knox, is elected Sheriff of Rusk County.
'Great, another spoiled nepotism child' I think to myself as I roll my eyes.
It looks like she was only 28 years old when she was named Sheriff. The fact that she is so young confirms to me that her daddy probably got her that position.
Regardless, after I have a close look at the entire case, I have to agree with JJ that this isn't an urgent case because the murder are too far apart. Unfortunately, we have more important ones we need to travel to at the moment. So, I begin to compose an email to Sheriff Jules Knox with my own notes on the case and some advice she can use.
Subject: Assistance with Investigation of Recent Homicides in Texas
Dear Sheriff Knox,
I am SSA Aaron Hotchner, Chief of the Behavioural Analysis Unit of the FBI. I am writing in response to the case you have sent us regarding the series of homicides in your County of victims Sarah Thompson, Michael Ruiz, and David Collins. After reviewing the case details and considering the unique clues and evidence associated with each crime, I don't find necessary for our unit to visit your department at the time but I would like to offer some insights and recommendations that may aid in the investigation.
Symbols Carved on the Victims:
Each victim has a symbol carved into their body, with slight variations. This suggests a ritualistic or symbolic motive behind the murders. The perpetrator might be attempting to communicate a message or follow a specific ritualistic pattern. The differences in the symbols could indicate the killer's evolving signature or a progression in their ritual. I would suggest you conduct an investigation into the existance of cults in the area which could explain the symbolisms and lead you to your unknown subject.
Murder Methods:
The variation in murder methods—strangulation, blunt force trauma, and drowning—indicates a level of premeditation and adaptability. This suggests that the unsub (unknown subject) is not limited by a specific MO and might choose the method based on the victim's environment or their own evolving psychological state. It could also mean that there are more than one unsubs but they would all have a common leader which empowers the theory that this could be the work of a cult.
Lack of Forced Entry:
The absence of forced entry in Sarah Thompson and Michael Ruiz's cases suggests that the two might have known their attacker, in contrast to David Collin's case where a window was broken. Investigating social connections of the first two and any recent acquaintances or unusual behavior could provide leads.
Victim Profiles:
The victims' diverse occupations and social standings suggest that the unsub's selection criteria are not based solely on a specific profession or lifestyle. Instead, the killer might be targeting individuals who represent certain archetypes or personal grievances.
Psychological Profile:
The unsub appears to be methodical and ritualistic, indicating a high level of intelligence and organization. The fact that they have gone unnoticed every time suggests that they can blend in with the small crowd, they won't appear suspicious. Maybe his occupation or social status allows him to be in the crime scenes without being questioned. The carving of symbols suggests a belief system or personal philosophy that is driving their actions. This could be rooted in a form of delusion, obsession with certain symbols, or a desire to leave a unique mark that links the crimes together. The variation in murder methods and locations indicates adaptability and a lack of a fixed pattern, which makes profiling challenging. However, the symbolic carvings are a consistent element that can be crucial in understanding the unsub's mindset.
Recommendations:
1. Symbol Analysis: Engage a symbologist or a cultural anthropologist to analyze the carved symbols. Understanding their meaning could provide insights into the unsub's motivations and potential future targets.
2. Victimology: Conduct a thorough victimology analysis to identify any commonalities or connections between the victims. Look for recent changes in their routines, new acquaintances, or any involvement in groups or activities that might be relevant.
3. Community Outreach: Alert the community to the potential danger and encourage them to report any suspicious behavior or individuals. Emphasize the importance of secure locks and being cautious with strangers.
4. Behavioral Analysis: I am attaching to this email a file with a detailed profile of the unsub based on the psychological traits and behavioral patterns evident in the murders. This profile can help narrow down potential suspects.
5. Surveillance and Patrol: Increase patrols in areas related to the victims' last known locations and potential future targets. Use surveillance to monitor any suspicious activities, especially around schools, garages, and hospitals.
If you require further assistance or would like to discuss the case in more detail, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our team is ready to provide support and collaborate to bring the perpetrator to justice.
Best regards,
Aaron Hotchner
Supervisory Special Agent
Behavioral Analysis Unit
Federal Bureau of Investigation.
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Cowboy Like Me || Aaron Hotchner
FanfictionA series of unsolved murders in Rusk County, Texas, has Sheriff Jules Knox at her wit's end as the clues seem to point in different, confusing directions. So, despite her dislike of bureaucrats, she contacts the FBI for help. The case file ends up i...
