Behavioral Analysis Unit

The purpose of the BAU is to provide behavioral based investigative and operational support by applying case experience, research, and training to complex and time-sensitive crimes, typically involving acts or threats of violence. The program areas addressed include Crimes Against Children, Crimes Against Adults, Communicated Threats, Corruption, and Bombing and Arson Investigations. The BAU receives requests for services from Federal, state, local, and international law enforcement agencies. Response to these requests for BAU assistance are facilitated through the network of field NCAVC coordinators. BAU services are provided during on-site case consultations, telephone conference calls, and/or consultations held at the BAU with case investigators. BAU assistance to law enforcement agencies is provided through the process of "criminal investigative analysis", popularly known as “the profiling. The BAU experts also produced the "Child Abduction Response Plan" to assist investigators faced with these challenging and time-sensitive investigations. The BAU maintains a reference file for experts in various forensic and criminalistic disciplines.