Forensic criminologist outlines seven stages of becoming a serial killer

Forensic criminologist Laura Brand has outlined seven stages that serial killers typically go through, based on her interviews with over 50 murderers. These stages include fantasy, planning, hunting, capture, murder, disposal, and rebirth. The first stage, fantasy, can last from five to 30 years, where killers develop violent thoughts and become increasingly isolated. The planning stage follows, lasting one to five years, during which they research and prepare for their crimes. The hunting phase involves actively tracking victims, while the capture stage is when they abduct them. The murder phase is when the act occurs, followed by disposal of evidence. Finally, the rebirth stage involves emotional regression and planning for future crimes.