Is NVDRS useful in tracking repeated or linked events as in the case of a serial killer? How can NVDRS be applied to terrorism?
NVDRS can identify similar incidents of violence that occur in neighboring states during a short period of time, such as the 2002 sniper-related homicides in the District of Columbia area. While completed suspect information for separate incidents may help to identify a link on the state level, the primary use of NVDRS is to gain a better understanding of the circumstances that contribute to violence and to offer potential areas to intervene. The data from NVDRS are stripped of identifiers before they are sent to CDC, eliminating the possibility of linking suspects. Deaths from acts of terrorism are included.
