FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit assists in the Virginia Tech shooting investigation

"The FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) provides assistance to law enforcement agencies across the country and around the world through investigative analysis. This work involves reviewing and assessing the facts of a criminal act, interpreting offender behavior, and interaction with victims. Their work attempts to shed light into the how and why of the crime, the extent and level of pre-planning involved, and the future implications such as whether or not it inspires copycats. The BAU conducts detailed analysis of crimes which can be used to assist investigators. They can offer investigative suggestions, interview strategies, search warrant assistance, and expert testimony.

Prevention at some level occurs regularly throughout the country as local law enforcement and school administrators address and attempt to mitigate a variety of threats. The BAU may be contacted for an assessment of the level of threat posed by a situation emanating from within the student population or outside the school. BAU assists in evaluating the nature and seriousness of the threats as well as the development of an appropriate response.

In the past, behavioral analysis has been provided to investigators following incidents such as Columbine, Red Lake, Minn., Elmira, NY, and most recently, Virginia Tech."