Newborn kidnapping by cesarean section

J Forensic Sci. 2002 Jul;47(4):827-30.

Abstract

A study of 30 cases of violence from a total sample of 199 cases of infant abductions between the years 1983 and 2000 included a subsample of six (or 20%) where the kidnapping was by cesarean section. The six cases are classified by type of crime. Four cases were classified as personal cause homicide, subtype cesarean section homicide; one case classified as personal cause, subtype domestic homicide, and one case classified as a criminal enterprise homicide. The behavioral profiles of the abductors included a confidence style approach to the victim mother, deception, and planning of the cesarean section. The forensic psychodynamics suggest a dual motive to cement a failing partner relationship and to fulfill a childbearing and delivery fantasy. Cesarean section murder suggests a new category of personal cause homicide.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Cesarean Section*
  • Crime / psychology*
  • Fantasy
  • Female
  • Homicide*
  • Humans
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Interpersonal Relations
  • Male
  • Motivation
  • Personality
  • Pregnancy
  • Retrospective Studies