LD 6: Chapter 1 - Modus Operandi in Burglary

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Questions and Answers

What is a characteristic of juvenile burglars?

  • Highly skilled and organized
  • Mainly focuses on monetary gain
  • Usually targets residences or schools (correct)
  • Plans each step in advance

Amateur burglars primarily steal items for personal use and not for monetary reasons.

False (B)

Name a common property type that amateur burglars might focus on.

Easily sold items

Professional burglars carefully select their targets and may use specialized __________ to gain entry.

<p>tools</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the burglar categories with their characteristics:

<p>Juvenile = Opportunist, targets residences, tends to cause mischief Amateur = Commits crimes for monetary reasons, targets poorly secured sites Professional = Highly skilled, plans each step, uses specialized tools</p> Signup and view all the answers

When assessing a crime scene for evidence, officers should look for signs that indicate:

<p>Possession of stolen property linked to the crime (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Professional burglars do not plan their burglaries in advance.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What approach should officers take when responding to a burglary?

<p>Follow established guidelines</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which element is NOT considered in establishing a modus operandi for burglary?

<p>Type of weather condition (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The method of entry is an important factor in identifying a burglar's modus operandi.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of crimes is burglary primarily associated with?

<p>Serial crimes</p> Signup and view all the answers

During a burglary, specific room(s) targeted may include the ______ for jewelry.

<p>bedroom</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following tools with their potential use in burglary:

<p>Crowbar = Breaking entry Bolt cutter = Cutting locks Screwdriver = Picking locks Garage door opener = Gaining illegal access</p> Signup and view all the answers

What method could a burglar use to enter a home if the door was locked?

<p>Using a hidden key (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The degree of skill necessary for entry does not play a role in a burglar's MO.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What specific actions may a burglar take during the crime that help define their modus operandi?

<p>Targeting specific rooms and causing damage</p> Signup and view all the answers

Burglars may leave particular symbols or writing behind as ______.

<p>notes</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is least likely to help police link a suspect to a burglary?

<p>Amount of stolen items (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary guideline when approaching a burglary scene?

<p>Approach quickly and safely (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Establishing a perimeter around the crime scene is not necessary if suspects are not found at the scene.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the first action that should be taken upon arrival at a burglary scene?

<p>Assess the presence or absence of suspects.</p> Signup and view all the answers

During victim interviews, it is important to obtain a detailed _____ of each item taken.

<p>description</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the action with its corresponding guideline related to burglary investigations:

<p>Establish perimeters = Control access to the crime scene area Document evidence = Use photographs, video tape, and sketches Obtain victim details = Identify everyone who had access to the premises Canvass the area = Seek information from neighbors and witnesses</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a recommended guideline when surveying the crime scene?

<p>Ignore areas outside the crime scene (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

It is recommended to approach a burglary scene as if it were a robbery in progress.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if evidence is found at the crime scene?

<p>Document and preserve the evidence properly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Use appropriate methods for the collection and preservation of _____ evidence.

<p>physical</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following behaviors should be noted during suspect behavior analysis?

<p>Individuals appearing nervous or out of place (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

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Study Notes

Burglary Crime Overview

  • Burglary is often a serial crime with individuals using a consistent modus operandi (MO) based on skills and experience.
  • Identifying a specific MO can help link suspects to crime scenes.

Considerations for Establishing MO

  • Target Selection

    • Type of business or residence targeted.
    • Nature of the neighborhood, including public visibility and proximity.
    • Skill level required and the time needed for entry.
    • Knowledge of the layout or possessions inside.
  • Point and Manner of Entry

    • Methods include using hidden keys, picking locks, breaking windows, and entering through unsecured doors.
    • Use of tools like crowbars or bolt cutters to gain entry.

Actions During the Crime

  • Focus on specific rooms based on targeted items (e.g., jewelry, electronics).
  • Examine the amount and type of damage inflicted, such as graffiti or destruction of equipment.
  • Look for symbols or messages left behind by the burglar.

Initial Police Response Guidelines

  • Approach each scene as if a robbery is in progress; prioritize safety.
  • Remain alert for suspicious individuals or behaviors around the area.

Initial Assessment Actions

  • Verify the presence of any suspects and confirm if a crime has occurred.
  • Establish contact with the building owner or occupant for identification and information.

Securing the Crime Scene

  • Control access to the area and establish perimeters.
  • Conduct a walkthrough with the owner to identify entry/exit points and potential evidence.

Surveying the Crime Scene

  • Determine what items were taken and check for any items left behind.
  • Investigate areas outside the crime scene for additional evidence.

Victim and Witness Interviews

  • Obtain detailed descriptions of stolen items, including serial numbers.
  • Identify the last individuals at the property and establish a time frame for the burglary.
  • Canvass for witnesses to gather information about unusual activity or noise.

Evidence Collection

  • Document physical evidence with photographs, sketches, and notes.
  • Use proper methods for the preservation of evidence collected from the scene.
  • Prepare a clear and detailed investigative report including essential details like what, when, where, who, how, and why.

Categories of Burglary Offenders

  • Juvenile Offenders

    • Often opportunists targeting easily accessible places.
    • Primary motivations include mischief rather than theft for profit, with local targets like residences or schools.
  • Amateur Offenders

    • Commit crimes primarily for monetary gain to satisfy personal needs such as addiction.
    • Target poorly secured locations and may cause property damage during the burglary.
  • Professional Offenders

    • Highly skilled with significant planning involved in each burglary.
    • Select specific targets and times, equipped with specialized tools for entry.
    • Operate with the intent to steal high-value items efficiently.

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