Examining male sexual violence and victimization using previously untested sexual assault kits (via the SAK Initiative): Part 2, Offenders

Purpose – This study, the second in a two-part series, aims to analyze the characteristics of offenders linked to male victims of sexual violence and the outcomes of cases involving these victims. Building on the first paper, which explored male victimology patterns, this study seeks to address critical gaps in understanding sexual violence against men, leveraging data from previously untested sexual assault kits (SAKs). Design/methodology/approach – The research uses data from police reports from the Cleveland PD and Akron PD Sexual Assault Kit Initiatives (SAKI), examining a large sample of previously untested male SAKs collected over approximately 25 years. Routine activity theory is applied to explore the characteristics of offenders and compare case outcomes between male and female victims. Findings – The study identifies differences in the characteristics and behaviors of suspects targeting male victims compared to female victims. Intra-racial victimization was more frequent with suspects associated with male victims. Suspects and victims were younger in the male victim cases. Serial sexual assault offending did not differ by age or race of the victim. Cases with male victims had more successful case outcomes. Originality/value – As the second paper in this series, this research complements the first study by focusing on offender characteristics and case outcomes, providing a more comprehensive understanding of male victimization. It offers rare and valuable insights into the criminal justice processes associated with male sexual violence cases, contributing to the limited body of knowledge in this field. The findings underscore the need for inclusive policies and highlight how these insights can inform investigative practices to better address the needs of male survivors.