What does the term "modus operandi" refer to?

The term "modus operandi," often abbreviated as MO, refers to a criminal's characteristic patterns of behavior or methods. This term is used in law enforcement and criminal investigation to describe the techniques and strategies that a criminal consistently uses when committing crimes. Understanding a suspect's modus operandi can help investigators identify patterns in criminal activity, link different crimes together, and possibly even predict future actions.

For instance, if a burglar typically breaks in through a back window and only targets homes during certain hours, these behaviors represent their modus operandi. Recognizing these patterns allows detectives to narrow down their suspect list and can aid in establishing connections between seemingly unrelated cases. By analyzing this information, law enforcement can develop profiles that assist in apprehending suspects and preventing future offenses.