NCJ Number
94213
Date Published
1984
Length
27 pages
Annotation
As the Japanese economy has developed, thefts motivated by poverty have decreased, as have thefts committed by professional or semiprofessional thieves.
Abstract
The Japanese penal code, which has been in effect since 1907, has only one general article on theft. Since 1960, theft of movable objects has been distinguished from theft of immovables -- the occupation of others' lands or buildings. Between 1960 and 1982, theft and fraud increased, while robbery and extortion decreased. Urbanization may have contributed to the increase in thefts, since thefts seem to be more frequently committed in urban areas than in rural areas. The total number of juvenile thieves has increased drastically. Juvenile thefts generally involve shoplifting or bicycle thefts and are motivated by greed or fun. The main form of theft by females is shoplifting. Japanese police classify thefts into three categories: thefts by entering a building, vehicle theft, and other theft. The main mode of entry into houses is unlocked doors or windows. As Japanese society has changed, the forms of theft have changed. The only remaining pickpockets are old or middle aged. However, theft from cash dispensers installed by banks has appeared. First-time offenders generally do not receive prison sentences. Information on juvenile justice practices, notes, and 15 data tables are supplied.