Patterns of behavior

Patterns of behavior are entirely separate from modus operandi.

M/o is limited to the actual criminal act. A B&E man's M/O might include cutting the backdoor screen and taking the silverware. The fact that he defecates on the living room rug every time is not part of his m/o - it is a behavior unrelated to the crime at hand, burglary/theft.

Cutting a screen is nevertheless an instance of behavior.

Main Entry: mo·dus ope·ran·di
Pronunciation: "mO-d&s-"ä-p&-'ran-dE, -"dI
Function: noun
Inflected Form(s): plural mo·di operandi /'mO-"dE-, 'mO-"dI-/
Etymology: New Latin
Date: 1654

a method of procedure; especially : a distinct pattern or method of operation that indicates or suggests the work of a single criminal in more than one crime

Given that dictionary definition, the rug pooper's habit helps establish his distinct (stinc-y?) pattern.