NCJ Number
167531
Date Published
1996
Length
25 pages
Annotation
Research was conducted in Western Australia in 1993 to explore violence associated with robbery and property crime, and firsthand accounts from 88 offenders and 10 victims were examined to obtain information and perspectives relevant to violence prevention.
Abstract
Most offenders said violence was directly instrumental in crime commission or escape from the crime scene to avoid capture and arrest. The issue of control was a central construct in many accounts of robbers who were afraid another person would come along before the robbery was completed. Although offender accounts were dominated by instrumental considerations, the effect of drug and alcohol use on judgments and reactions was significant. Offenders described their emotions preceding the violence in terms of justifiable anger or being placed in an impossible position. During the actual violence, offenders reported their thoughts were primarily concerned with getting the job finished. Almost all victims experienced feelings of shock, surprise, and fear when initially confronted by offenders. Thoughts during the actual situation focused mainly on survival. Results indicate violence occurring in the course of property crimes and robberies can be most effectively prevented by reducing the overall rate of such crimes. Once an offender has confronted a victim, however, victim behavior may be critical in preventing violence. Recognition that offenders may be afraid of or even angry with the victim suggests a non-confrontational approach and one that may even facilitate the offender's escape. 22 references and 1 table