Targeted Violence: A Statistical and Tactical Analysis of Assassinations, Contract Killings, and Kidnappings
Author Glenn P. McGovern has aggregated 900 incidents spanning from 1950 through 2008. These attacks include assassinations, contract killings, and kidnappings perpetrated around the world. He provides a global statistical breakdown of these incidents regionally and globally, further broken down by the month, day of the week, and hour in which the attack took place. Amazingly, this analysis reads well and is presented in an easy-to-understand format, making it simple for the reader to put the data in practical perspective.One of the book's more interesting sections addresses attack methodologies, closely examining the primary tactic or technique employed by attackers attempting assassinations, contract killings, or kidnappings. Other sections deal with the methods of operation and victimology, breaking down terrorist groups, past and present, and looking at those targeted.The book's final sections feature 35 case studies examining attacks on motorcades and pedestrians dating back to 1973. McGovern offers a complete analysis after each case study.Targeted Violenceis a study well worth reading for all security, executive protection, and asset protection professionals. Each of us, regardless of level, must be able to both identify and compromise these threats.— Frederick D. "Rick" Arons, CPP, CRT, President and CEO of American Eagle Investigations & former member of the U.S. Army Special Forces, inSecurity Management, March 2011