A criminal's modus operandi is their?

• A. Method
• B. Signature
• C. Motive
• D. Opportunity

Answer: (A)

Modus operandi refers to the criminal’s method—their typical way of committing a crime. It covers the steps they take, the tools they use, the sequence of actions, and the overall approach they rely on to complete the offense. This focus on “how” the crime is carried out helps investigators connect incidents that share the same operating pattern and anticipate what the offender might do next, which is especially useful for security planning in a hospital setting.

This differs from motive, which explains why the person commits the crime; opportunity, which is about when and where they could commit it; and signature, which is the unique, personal touch left at the scene beyond what is necessary to commit the crime.

In security practice, recognizing an offender’s modus operandi enables you to identify patterns, reinforce vulnerable points, and implement targeted prevention strategies. Therefore, the best answer is the method.