Army looking for causes of violent crimes

WASHINGTON, July 17 (UPI) -- The U.S. Army says it conducted a study to determine what causes some soldiers to lash out violently, but results offered few hints at contributing factors.

The Christian Science Monitor reports the Army study investigated the possible connection between violent crimes perpetrated by U.S. soldiers and factors like soldiers' histories and deployments.

Analysts said while they found more intense combat conditions may contribute to certain crimes, they could not accurately pinpoint specific causal factors.

The study was brought about by 14 killings or attempted killings in the area of Fort Carson, Colo., from 2005 to 2008, the Monitor said.

Maj. Gen. Mark Graham, the commanding general at the fort, said the Army is focused on offering aid to those soldiers facing mental health issues.

"The Army's new message is that it is a sign of strength, not weakness, to reach out for help for yourself or to escort your battle buddy for care," he said.