Inside the Mind of a Would-Be Presidential Assassin: A Criminal Profiler's Analysis

Keith Howard, a criminal profiler, sheds light on the behavioral science behind the assassination attempt on former President Trump, revealing the possible motivations and thought processes of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the perpetrator.

In the aftermath of the attempted assassination of former President Trump, criminal profiler Keith Howard, the chief deputy of the Morgan County Sheriff's Office in Georgia, offers a chilling analysis of the behavioral science behind the perpetrator, Thomas Matthew Crooks. Howard emphasizes that the shooting was not likely politically motivated, nor was it a random act of violence.

According to Howard, the assassination attempt points to an "organized thinker" who had carefully planned his actions. "These events are not typically impulsive," he explains. "They don't just decide on a whim to target a presidential candidate." Instead, individuals such as Crooks meticulously assess their opportunities, searching for a moment to gain notoriety.

Inside the Mind of a Would-Be Presidential Assassin: A Criminal Profiler's Analysis

Howard suggests that the FBI's investigation may reveal that the assassination attempt was a crime of opportunity. Crooks may have sought a chance to make a statement, and the Trump rally in his backyard provided that platform. Howard adds that the examination of Crooks' phone and laptop will be instrumental in understanding his motivations.

As investigators continue their search for a motive, Howard points to the lack of a definitive profile for an assassin or attempted assassin. He notes that individuals can range in age and background, and mental illness is rarely a factor. The FBI's behavioral science unit will likely conduct an indirect personality assessment to piece together Crooks' thoughts and beliefs before the attack.

Inside the Mind of a Would-Be Presidential Assassin: A Criminal Profiler's Analysis

The FBI's investigation will focus on assessing Crooks' prior characteristics and traits. Standardized questions will be asked to those who knew him, and the responses will be compared to the crime scene information to create a behavioral construction of the offender.

Access to Crooks' phone and computer is expected to provide significant insights. "If there are pictures, if there are plans, it will be tremendous when it comes to understanding offender behavior," says Howard. Additionally, geofencing technology will allow investigators to track Crooks' movements.

Inside the Mind of a Would-Be Presidential Assassin: A Criminal Profiler's Analysis

Classmates of Crooks described him as "quiet" with few friends. He was seen as a "loner" who enjoyed gaming and building computers. While Crooks was registered as a Republican, his parents held different political affiliations. Investigators are still working to determine if these factors played a role in his actions.

Despite the ongoing investigation, the motive for the assassination attempt remains a mystery. Howard cautions against rushing to judgment, emphasizing the importance of a thorough examination of Crooks' behavior and beliefs. The search for answers continues as the FBI delves into the perplexing puzzle of this would-be presidential assassin.

Inside the Mind of a Would-Be Presidential Assassin: A Criminal Profiler's Analysis