What Is a Mugshot
A mugshot is an official police photograph taken after an arrest. It usually shows the person from the front and side. Law enforcement agencies use mugshots for identification and booking records. They are part of public arrest records in many jurisdictions.
Why Mugshots of Serial Killers Are Widely Shared
Mugshots of serial killers attract public attention because they are tied to high-profile crimes. Media outlets and true crime websites often publish them to illustrate news stories. These images help the public recognize suspects and understand the timeline of major cases.
How Mugshots Are Used in Investigations
Police use mugshots to confirm identity and share images with other agencies. They may be compared with other photos in databases to link crimes. Mugshots also appear in court files and public archives. Some online platforms collect these images, but access can vary by jurisdiction.
For more on mugshots and booking photos, see the Bureau of Justice Statistics.
