Attempting to do a taxonomic division of homosexual offenders vs. adults is at our present state of knowledge rather futile, since it involves the whole problem of the etiology of homosexuality. However, we do know that certain types of homosexual behavior often lead to arrest and it is possible to categorize persons on this basis. Thus the following divisions are not so much personality categories as they are traits of behavior.
First we must set aside the large group of males who try to be reasonably circumspect, but who through events largely beyond their control (such as a raid on a “gay” bar) have fallen into the toils of the law.
One variety whose members are almost certain of arrest are those who flaunt their homosexuality. A small minority of exclusively or nearly exclusively homosexual males, generally young, adopt grotesquely exaggerated female mannerisms and may sometimes wear female clothing and cosmetics. Such behavior gains them the attention they desire, but also attracts the unwanted attention of the police.
Another variety whose members are less obviously homosexual but equally certain of arrest are the promiscuous “cruisers” who spend much time circulating in public places where males congregate, soliciting those whom they judge open to homosexual overtures. Sooner or later they are noticed by plainclothes men or make the error of soliciting a plainclothes man. A substantial number are caught in sexual activity with other males in public toilets.
Lastly are the men who either prefer or accept as sexual partners young males aged sixteen to twenty. Any male in his middle twenties or older who seems to be currying favor with teen-age males is viewed with acute suspicion by the police, and unless his interest is justified by some connection with an organization (e.g., social work, religious groups, scouting, etc.) he is likely to be watched and investigated. Also, when teen-age males are arrested in cases where homosexuality may possibly be involved they are frequently interrogated closely about their contacts with older adults. Then too, the adult who picks up strange teenagers may find himself the victim of robbery or extortion, which directly or indirectly leads to police action.
*215\161\2*
