Resurrecting polygraph validation of self‐reported crime data: A note on research method and ethics using the deer poacher∗

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Abstract
After giving informed consent and under the promise of remuneration, fifteen persons apprehended for the poaching crime of “hunting at night” were interviewed and then polygraphed to verify the truthfulness of their responses. Information was gathered on the amount of night hunting activity, illegal game taken, and the factors surrounding the genesis of the behavior (including age of onset). Responses indicated a strong support for learning theory as an explanation for this form of poaching ‐ almost all had been socialized at an early age with definitions favorable toward this offense by friends and family members. All but two of the night hunters could be described as chronic night hunting recidivists. Besides offering a descriptive account of the behavior, the research benefits and ethical aspects of polygraphing subjects to obtain criminological data are discussed.

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