Unveiling the Nexus: Exploring the Influence of Personal and Situational Traits on Weapon Selection and Severity of Violence

Abstract

This study explores how individual and situational factors, weapon choice, and the level of violence relate to fatal and non-fatal violent offenses committed by individuals incarcerated for violent offenses (IIVOs). Utilizing a sample of 325 cases from the New Jersey Department of Corrections, data were derived from detailed case records, including arrest reports, witness statements, and pre-sentence investigations. The individual factors used data from case reviews and gathered demographic data and prior arrests, if any. The situational factors assessed incident-specific details such as, the role of the perpetrator, their motive, premeditation, and the relationship with the victim. The level of violence assessed how violent the act was and if the incident was fatal. Lastly, weapon choice was measured if the perpetrator used a body part, improvised a weapon, or if they carried a weapon to the scene. The study employed multinomial logistic regression and chi-square analyses to assess predictors of weapon choice and the degree of violence. Results demonstrate that planning and group dynamics significantly influenced the likelihood of carrying weapons, while racial disparities highlighted contextual factors shaping weapon use. Degree of violence was strongly associated with motivations such as conflict resolution or material gain, with planned and carried-weapon offenses more likely to result in fatal violence. The limitations of this study are discussed. Policy implications emphasize regulating weapon accessibility, addressing systemic inequalities influencing violence, and tailoring rehabilitative programs to individual motivations. This research provides actionable insights for reducing the prevalence and severity of violence through evidence-based interventions.