What is a Crime? Part 1 Offenses The Major Crimes

MURDER! The unlawful killing of a human being. –1 st Degree Homicide –2 nd Degree Homicide –3 rd Degree Homicide or Manslaughter Involuntary Voluntary

Interesting Stats on Murder What was the weapon of choice in most murders? Are you more likely to be murdered by a stranger? What age group is more likely to be murdered?

Interesting Stats on Murder Firearms are the weapon of choice. 70% of murders had a handgun. Next was shotguns and then knives. Only 13% of murders were committed by strangers. 52% by family or close acquaintance. Murders more likely happen as part of other crimes are more likely to be killed.

Interesting Murder Stats Mass murders is 4 or more victims in one setting. Serial murders happen over time and have patterns. Least planned crime. Most likely to be solved. 64%

Forcible Rape Unlawful sexual intercourse with a female, by force and against her will – or without LEGAL or FACTUAL consent.

Cultural Myths About Rape Rape cannot occur if the woman resists. All women secretly desire to be raped. The majority of rapes are triggered by women being out alone at night. Most victims don’t resist. Most rapes occur following social encounters, like dates.

Cultural Myths About Rape Rape is a victim precipitated crime. Only young attractive women are raped. Rape is motivated by the need for sexual gratification. Most rapes are done by strangers. Rape is an impulsive act.

Facts About Rape Rape is an offender-precipitated crime. Women of all ages and appearances have been victims of rape. Rape can happen to ANYONE. Most rapists appear motivated by the need to feel powerful. Most rapes are committed by acquaintances. Most rapes are planned.

Robbery The unlawful taking or attempted taking of property that is in the immediate possession of another, by force or the threat of force.

Differences Armed robbery / strong-armed robbery – a weapon is present. Unarmed robbery – no weapon present. Highway robbery – robbery in a public place or out of doors.

What do you think? Banks are more common of a target than individuals? Which gets robbed most – banks, gas stations, convenience stores?

Statistics on Robbery It is NOT purse snatching or picking pockets. There is a confrontation. It does include mugging. Individuals are more likely targets. Gas stations are the most likely business target followed by convenience stores and banks. Most common are highway robberies (62%) Guns used in 42% and knives in 10%. 20% chance of weapon going off.

Assault The unlawful intentional inflicting, or attempted or threatened inflicting, of injury upon the person of another. –1 st Degree – aggravated –2 nd Degree – simple –3 rd Degree - attempted

Differences Simple Assault: may involve pushing, shoving or fist fights. Aggravated Assault: Weapons used OR the person needs medical attention. –May be chargeable as attempted murder.

Aggravated Assault Stats – Weapons Used Blunt objects – 32% Hands, feet, fists – 26% Firearms – 24% Knives – 18%

Burglary The unlawful entry of any fixed structure, vehicle or vessel used for regular residence, industry, or business, with or without force, with intent to commit a felony or larceny.

Burglary Most common means of entry: –Unlocked doors or windows –69% were forced entry. –10% of burglaries have the victim(s) at home when they happen. 30% more chance of getting hurt.

Burglary Lowest rate of being caught – only 13% are solved.

Larceny The unlawful taking or attempted taking of property other than a motor vehicle from the possession of another, by stealth, without force and with deceit, with intent to permanently deprive the owner of the property

Examples of Larceny Thefts from motor vehicles Shoplifting Thefts of car parts and accessories Thefts from buildings Purse snatching / pick pocketing Thefts from coin –operated machines Con games / computer crimes

Motor Vehicle Theft Unlawful taking or attempted taking of a self- propelled road vehicle owned by another, with the intent to deprive him/her of it permanently or temporarily. –Doesn’t include trains, boats, construction equipment, farm machinery, planes.

Statistics on Motor Vehicle Theft The average value of the stolen car $5000. Second lowest clearance rate – 14% of car thefts are solved. Carjackings make up 1% of the total car thefts. 60% of those arrested were under 21 and 88% were male.

Arson The burning or attempted burning of property with or without intent to defraud.