Dr. Benjamin McKee Baughman, BSc, MSc, PhD
Professor, Investigative Psychology, and Intelligence Studies in Erie, Pennsylvania
Dr. Baughman graduated from East Carolina University with a B.S. in Criminal Justice, serving in law enforcement in the following capacities; Patrol Officer, Training Officer, Hostage Negotiator & Coordinator, State Certified Instructor, Crime Analyst, Detective and Sergeant.
In 2003, he began following in the footsteps of his parents to become an educator. He earned his General Instructor Certificate from the State of NC and instructed both new and veteran officers and hostage negotiators.
In 2006, after reading a book by Professor David Canter (developer of Investigative Psychology), Dr. Baughman enrolled at the University of Liverpool to pursue a Masters in Investigative Psychology. Under Professor Canter’s tutelage, he explored patterns and trends in the spatial behavior of offenders, the development of generalized models of criminal geographical activity, criminal behaviors and the utilization of geographical profiling.
Intrigued by interfacing intelligence studies with investigative psychology techniques, he followed Professor Canter to the University of Huddersfield to pursue a doctorate in Investigative Psychology. His thesis examined the psychological aspects of rape investigations.
After 14+ years in law enforcement, Dr. Baughman began his journey as an educator with the NC Justice Academy teaching Sexual Deviant Crime Investigations, Hostage Negotiations & Crisis Management programs working alongside knowledgeable and dedicated practitioners.
Dr. Baughman teaches introductory courses in Investigative Psychology throughout the UK to students potentially interested in pursuing academic/professional areas of Investigative/Forensic Psychology. He consults for the Institute of Police Technology and Management (IPTM) and tutors for the University of Essex Online.
In 2017, Dr. Baughman accepted an Assistant Professor in Intelligence Studies role with Mercyhurst University. Interestingly enough, this opportunity has brought Dr. Baughman back to the area his parents began their own careers in education. He resides in Erie with his wife Lily-Suzan, and children; Jacob, Alex, Christian, and Katelyn (Team J.A.C.K.), along with an old, loving black lab and two sleepy felines. Folks will often see Dr. and Mrs. Baughman out and about with their tribe enjoying the campus events or exploring the surrounding area.
Honors
-Distinguished Service Medal
-A Letter of Commendation
-A Division Commendation