Concise Summary of Crimes Against Property

Crimes Against Property

• Key areas include:
  • Burglary
  • Larceny-Theft
  • Motor Vehicle Theft
  • Arson

Burglary

• Definition: Unlawful entry to commit felony/theft without needing force.
• Types:
  • Forced Entry: Force is used to enter.
  • Unlawful Entry (no force): Entry into a structure without permission.
  • Attempted Forcible Entry: Trying to gain entry with force.

Larceny-Theft

• Definition: Taking property unlawfully from another without using force or fraud. Excludes motor vehicle theft specifically.
• Types include:
  • Shoplifting
  • Pickpocketing
  • Bicycle theft
• FBI Stats (2017): 5.5 million thefts, 71.4% of all property crimes. Shoplifting accounts for 20% of larceny-theft.

Motor Vehicle Theft

• Definition: Theft or attempt to steal any motor vehicle (cars, trucks, motorcycles).
• Excludes temporary use by lawful individuals.
• 2017 Data: 773,139 vehicles reported stolen.

Arson

• Definition: Willful or malicious burning or attempt to burn any property.
• Classification: Requires malicious intent for it to be considered arson.
• Youths often represent the majority of arson offenders.

Types of Burglars

• Low-Level Burglars: Typically juveniles; opportunistic; deterred by security measures.
• Middle-Level Burglars: Older individuals; mix legitimate activities with crime; influenced by substances.
• High-Level Burglars: Organized; skilled in crime; often work in groups.

Additional Insights

• Higher burglary rates in African American households; more suitable targets due to smaller, lighter electronic devices.
• Juveniles are significantly involved in shoplifting and arson.