Gregory Saville:

"This book is a breakthrough for the science of crime and prevention and for the criminological enterprise – both academic and practitioner. Osborne has made a contribution of considerable weight. This is a book you should read."

Qualitative Crime Pattern Identification

Sunday, July 21, 2024

And More Possible Elements of Robbery Patterns

Entry and exit points: Some robbers may consistently prefer certain types of entry and exit points. For example, always using back doors, fire exits, or windows. This choice can be based on factors like ease of access, reduced visibility, or quicker escape routes.

 Time between robberies: The frequency of crimes can be part of an MO. Some robbers might have a consistent pattern of time between offenses, whether it's days, weeks, or months. This could be related to financial needs, risk management, or even superstitious beliefs.

Victim handling: How robbers interact with victims beyond initial demands can be distinctive. Some might consistently isolate certain types of victims (e.g., managers or security personnel), while others might have specific methods of restraining or positioning victims.

Evidence elimination: Specific techniques for avoiding leaving evidence or eliminating it after the fact can be part of an MO. This might include wearing gloves, using bleach to clean surfaces, or destroying security footage in a particular way.

Vehicle use patterns: For robbers who use vehicles, there might be consistent patterns in the types of vehicles chosen (e.g., always stolen vehicles, or always non-descript sedans), or in how vehicles are acquired and disposed of.

Escalation or de-escalation patterns: Some robbers might show a consistent pattern of escalating their crimes over time, becoming more violent or ambitious. Others might show a de-escalation pattern, perhaps becoming more cautious after close calls.

Reaction to resistance: How a robber consistently responds to unexpected resistance or non-compliance from victims can be a key part of their MO. Some might immediately resort to violence, others might flee, and some might have rehearsed verbal responses.

Use of written notes: In some robberies, particularly bank robberies, the use of written demand notes is common. The content, handwriting, and delivery method of these notes can be highly characteristic.

Specific verbal commands or phrases: Beyond general verbal strategies, some robbers might consistently use very specific phrases or commands, almost like a script.

Target acquisition radius: The geographic range in which a robber operates can be part of their MO. Some might consistently travel long distances to commit crimes, while others stick to a small, familiar area.

Response to alarms or intervention: How a robber consistently reacts to triggered alarms, unexpected arrivals, or law enforcement intervention can be a defining part of their MO.

Seasonal patterns: Some robbers might be more active during certain seasons, whether due to financial pressures (like holiday expenses) or environmental factors (like darker winter evenings).


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