Date:
6/26/2006
Contact: Wendel Sloan at 505.562.2253
PORTALES—Paul Lockman, professor of sociology at Eastern New Mexico University, will offer a homicide class from July 3–28 in order to present a different view from what might be portrayed in Hollywood. Those who take the class will discover trends and patterns of killing and psychology of the field.
The focus will center on mass and serial killing, with the aid of current events and leaders in the area. Lockman believes that this class will help inform using the basic facts instead of fear-motivated tactics. "It's relevant for all of us that live in the community," he said.
Along with basic knowledge, students will learn how officials in law enforcement handle cases through visual interaction. Lockman hopes this will clear up any misconceptions on how cases will be handled from the local to federal levels.
"They will have a better understanding of homicide, such as knowing there is an actual behavior science unit in the FBI," he said. Other areas will deal with the alarmist rumor that that there are several hundred serial killers when only 30 may be present at a given time.
To bring the lessons full circle, students will discover the links to friends and family through homicide. Lockman's class will show how connected people are to each other when a murder occurs. "Most people are killed by people they know," he said.
Lockman has been teaching the class for close to 10 years. Lockman noted the root of the problem starts in childhood. "I think we all need to take a Parenting 101 class," he said.
As well as his homicide class, Lockman will also teach Deviant Behavior. Those wishing to sign up for either can call the Registrar's Office at 800.FOR.ENMU (562.2178 locally). Students can also take the classes through instructional TV at various sites.