Kim Rossmo

Dr. D. Kim Rossmo is a Canadian criminologist internationally recognized for developing the field of geographic profiling, a groundbreaking investigative methodology that analyzes the locations of connected crimes to determine where serial offenders are likely to reside. His work has revolutionized criminal investigations and is now used by law enforcement agencies around the world.

Born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Dr. Rossmo began his career with the Vancouver Police Department in 1978. He went on to become the first Canadian police officer to earn a Ph.D. in criminology, which he completed at Simon Fraser University in 1995. During his doctoral research, he created what is now known as Rossmo’s Formula, the foundation of modern geographic profiling.

Dr. Rossmo’s expertise has been pivotal in high-profile investigations, including his early warnings about a serial killer preying on sex workers in Vancouver—a case that later led to the arrest and conviction of Robert Pickton. He also co-developed Rigel, a geographic profiling software system used by agencies including the FBI, Scotland Yard, and the RCMP.

In addition to his investigative work, Dr. Rossmo has held academic and research leadership roles, including Director of Research at the Police Foundation in Washington, D.C., and Endowed Chair in Criminology at Texas State University. He currently serves as Director of the Center for Geospatial Intelligence and Investigation, where he leads federally funded research on topics such as criminal behavior, counterterrorism, epidemiology, and wrongful convictions.

Dr. Rossmo is the author of numerous academic papers and books, including Geographic Profiling and Criminal Investigative Failures. His contributions have earned him several accolades, including the Governor General of Canada Police Exemplary Service Medal. He continues to be a leading voice in the evolution of evidence-based policing and forensic science.