Chilean/Australian criminal profiler Marcela del Sol-Hallett who has just received the prestigious International Prize for Excellence in Criminology from the International Institute of Justice and Profiling Studies (IIJPS) is now preparing to take her fight against crime into the political arena. The distinguished professional, recognized globally for her groundbreaking contributions to the study of organized crime, has announced her candidacy for the Senate representing the Valparaíso Region—a region grappling with a sharp rise in violence, drug trafficking, and organized criminal networks.
Del Sol-Hallett’s international award highlighted her commitment to working in criminal profiling, crime prevention, and behavioral analysis, where she has developed innovative approaches to understanding offenders and dismantling organized structures. “This recognition strengthens my conviction that Chile must embrace criminological science in the fight against organized crime,” she told reporters. “That is exactly the perspective I want to bring to the Senate.”
The award also symbolizes Marcela’s role as a woman excelling in a field long dominated by men. Her success as a profiler has already inspired young women in criminology, law, and public service. Now, as a political candidate, she represents a new face in Chilean politics, promising to merge academic rigor with legislative action.
“Valparaíso deserves more than speeches about security—it deserves policies based on knowledge, prevention, and a serious confrontation of organized crime,” she declared.
The Valparaíso Region has seen a worrying escalation of homicides, drug-related violence, and gang activity in recent years, making public security a central electoral issue. By positioning herself as both a global authority on organized crime and a local advocate for safer communities, the profiler aims to channel her expertise into concrete policies.
Political analysts suggest her candidacy could resonate strongly with voters frustrated by rising insecurity and distrust in traditional politicians. “Her international recognition gives her credibility, and her professional background makes her uniquely equipped to legislate on crime and security,” said a political observer.
In her own words: “This award is a reminder that knowledge is the most powerful tool we have. In the Senate, I will fight to put evidence, prevention, and the protection of our communities at the heart of Chile’s response to organized crime.”
With her candidacy, she seeks not only to make history as a profiler turned senator, but also to prove that science and politics can—and must—work together to rebuild security in Chile.
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