22 Questions
What is the primary purpose of Modus Operandi in a burglary investigation?
To focus the investigation on one person or group of persons
What is one of the factors that makes up a Modus Operandi in a burglary case?
Time of day the burglary occurred
What can be determined from glass fragments found at a burglary scene?
The direction of impact
What is a unique characteristic that may be identified in a Modus Operandi?
Unusual items taken
What is the primary objective of a criminal investigation?
Not specified in the lesson plan
What type of physical evidence may be found on a suspect's clothing?
Paint chips
What can be used to identify a tool used in a burglary?
Jimmy Marks
What is the significance of a thorough examination of the point of entry at a burglary scene?
Tool markings or other methods of forced entry can be identified
What is the characteristic of a burglary crime?
It is a passive crime and burglars try to avoid contact with the victim or witnesses
What is the limitation of the police in investigating a burglary?
They are usually restricted to the Alfold search portion of the crime solving process
What is the significance of 'modus operandi' in a burglary investigation?
It is a characteristic behavior or method of operation of a burglar
What is the expected outcome of this lesson?
The trainee will be able to identify the phases of a burglary scene investigation and more
What is the primary challenge in investigating a burglary?
There is usually no eyewitness and a time lapse between the crime and its discovery.
What are the two factors used to determine the skill level of a burglar?
The ability to gain entry and the business sense of the burglar.
Which type of burglar is characterized by a lack of tools and vehicles, and often commits senseless vandalism?
Novice/Amateur
What is the primary goal of the opportunist burglar?
To steal guns, drugs, and other high-value items.
What is the typical age range of the opportunist burglar?
Late teens to early 30s
What is the primary characteristic of a professional burglar?
Planning and sophistication, making a living from burglaries.
What is the purpose of examining the point of entry in a burglary scene investigation?
To closely examine the point of entry for evidence.
What type of evidence can be found at the point of entry?
Toolmarks and impressions.
Why is the entry phase of a burglary scene investigation important?
Because the burglar is most vulnerable to detection during this phase.
What is the purpose of noting the apparent skill level of reported burglary incidents in a patrol area?
To adjust patrol techniques to reduce the frequency of burglaries.
Study Notes
Introduction to Burglary Investigation
- The primary objectives of a criminal investigation include identifying the factors that determine the skill level of burglars, identifying the phases of a burglary scene investigation, and identifying the special importance of a thorough examination of the point of entry at a burglary scene.
Factors Determining Skill Level of Burglars
- Two factors used to determine the skill level of a burglar: ability to gain entry into a premise and business sense of the burglar in regard to his selection of loot and ability to transport and dispose of the loot.
- Burglars can be classified into one of three categories: novice/amateur, opportunist, and professional based on these factors.
Characteristics of Burglars
- Novice/Amateur:
- Characterized as juveniles or prowlers
- Leaves the most amount of evidence at the scene
- Often commits senseless vandalism
- Steals small items that can be sold to friends or that won’t cause parents to become suspicious
- Opportunist:
- Steals guns, drugs, TVs, VCRs, stereos, jewelry, etc.
- Has vehicles, partners, fence, tools, and a higher entry ability
- Many times, a drug addict
- Looks for burglary targets (quick hits)
- Uses various methods of entry (jimmy entry, celluloid entry, step over a human fly entry, roof entry, cut in entry)
- Professional:
- Planning and sophistication - how they make a living
- Able to beat alarm systems, pick, or take out locks
- Has inside information from a snitch
- Has a ready market for the loot and steals by order
- Few jobs a year
- Older person who leaves the least amount of evidence
- Often uses power tools
- Often only hits businesses
- Uses various methods of entry (roof entry, cut in entry, safe burglary, pick lock)
Phases of Burglary Scene Investigation
- Three phases of a burglary scene investigation:
- Means of gaining entry
- Most important phase of the investigation
- Examine point of entry for evidence (toolmarks or other methods of forced entry) 2. What the burglars did while in the building
- Method of search and items taken may help determine the burglar’s skill level
- Any unique characteristics help to indicate the burglars’ Modus Operandi 3. How the burglar exited the premises
- Evidence may be located at point of exit or along path of flight
- Helps in determining the Modus Operandi
Modus Operandi in a Burglary Investigation
- Modus Operandi is used as a tool to eliminate and/or focus the burglary investigation on one person or group of persons
- Seven factors which make up a Modus Operandi in a burglary case:
- Time of day
- Location
- How entrance was gained
- How the search was conducted
- What property was taken
- Removal and escape
- Any unique characteristics
Physical Evidence in Burglary Cases
- Fingerprints:
- Point of entry/exit
- Items handled
- Glass:
- Could be fragments in suspect’s clothing
- Direction of impact can be determined
- Jimmy Marks:
- Tool identification
- Safe parts (insulation)
- Broken tool parts
- Personal items left at scene
- Paint:
- May be chips in suspect’s clothing
This quiz covers the objectives and steps of a criminal investigation, including a brief overview of the primary objectives and procedures for conducting a burglary investigation.
Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards
Convert your notes into interactive study material.
Get started for free
