Understanding Offender Behavior Related to Risk and the Use of Childlike Sex Dolls

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)’s Sensitive and Specialized Investigative Services (SSIS) has undertaken an in-depth examination of the issue of Childlike Sex Dolls (CLSD) to better understand what this type of behavior means in relation to deviance and risk. Over the past several years, there has been a reported increase in importation and seizures of these types of dolls and as a result, numerous police services in Canada have begun dealing with an influx of referrals. Despite the emergence of this phenomenon, little consensus exists regarding what the use of these dolls represents for individuals who have a sexual interest in children. Does it signify a greater risk that an individual will commit a contact offense against a minor or, act as a means of release to help manage deviant sexual preoccupations? Collaborative action within the law enforcement community internationally will continue to advance our understanding of this area of concern, will inform ongoing discussions as well as response strategies in regard to legislation, preventative efforts and training related to these dolls.