NCJ Number
222393
Date Published
February 2008
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This paper examines increased carjacking in Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States and South Africa reported through the literature, and potential methods in collecting and recording carjacking data.
Abstract
At present, it is not possible to determine the incidence of carjacking with any degree of accuracy. However, previously conducted intelligence analyses suggest that, at most, only a few hundred vehicles are stolen by threat, force, or intimidation in a year in Australia. The majority of vehicles carjacked in Australia do not appear to be stolen for profit via disposal of the stolen vehicle, but targeted by opportunistic or semi-organized groups for subsequent crime, fraudulent insurance claimants, or opportunistic individuals in need of transportation. Carjacking literature is limited, and perceptions vary about the level of violence involved, diverse scenarios, and the motivations of offenders. This paper examines reports of increased carjacking in light of existing recording practices, international data, and limited local information sources. In addition, local socioeconomic and cultural factors, such as firearm availability, are also discussed in the context of probable future trends in Australia. Figure and references