Theft is a crime that comes in many forms. It can include anything from stealing a loaf of bread from a shop to burgling a house at gunpoint. This post delves into some of the different types of theft and the penalties for committing them. It also explores a few basic ways of protecting yourself from these types of theft.
Robbery
Robbery involves stealing property from someone using force (or the threat of force). Mugging someone at knife-point is a prime example of robbery.
Most US states punish robbery with jail time – although this can vary from 9 months to 20 years, depending on the circumstances. Armed robbery almost always carried a harsher penalty.
Robbery can occur anywhere, but typically occurs in quiet places where witnesses are less likely. You can often avoid getting ‘mugged’ by sticking to well-lit streets in well-populated areas. Not flashing your valuables and not traveling alone can also reduce the risk of you being targeted.
Burglary
Burglary is classed as illegally entering a property to steal from it. Such a property could include a residential or commercial property (which could range from a building to a vehicle).
The penalty for burglary depends on the type of property, the way in which the thief gains access and the value of the items stolen. In most cases, this crime is punished with jail time.
Burglars specifically target homes that are seen as less secure and which may have a greater number of valuables inside. You can ward off burglars by investing in home security such as exterior lighting, burglar alarms and windows/doors with high quality locks. Make sure valuables aren’t clear to see through windows and don’t make it obvious that your home is vacant when you’re away. Measures like home insurance can help offer compensation if you ever are burgled.
Shoplifting
Shoplifting involves taking property from a shop without paying for it. Unlike robbery, it does not involve force, and unlike burglary, it does not involve breaking into anywhere.
People can be jailed for shoplifting, but when it comes to low value items this is generally not the case. Sometimes the penalty may be nothing more than a ban from the store.
If you own a shop, you can reduce shoplifting by installing cameras, adding security alarms or by hiring security staff.
Vehicle theft
Vehicle theft is another common crime. It can include anything from stealing a bike to stealing a car.
Most cases of vehicle theft are punishable with jail time. This is particularly the case with cars that have been broken into (which is also classed as burglary).
You can reduce the risk of burglary by always securing vehicles when not using them. Always lock your car and avoid parking in places where a thief can break in without anyone seeing. Similarly, lock away bikes in sheds or use a bicycle lock.
Pickpocketing
Pickpocketing involves stealing property from a person’s pockets or bag. It does not involve force like robbery and is often done slyly without the victim knowing.
Expensive fines and jail time are common penalties for pickpocketing – particularly if the thief is a serial pickpocket.
Pickpocketing is one of the few forms of theft that is more likely to occur in a crowded place. Make sure that bags and pockets are zipped up and that you don’t flash your valuables. Always keep bags and coats with you.
Embezzlement
Putting funds or property in the trust of someone else only to have these assets misused is known as embezzlement. An example could include asking someone to look after a donation box full of cash only for them to pocket some of the cash.
Embezzlement can be punished with a fine, imprisonment, restitution or all three. It often depends on the value of the embezzlement.
You can avoid being a victim of embezzlement by only allowing people you trust to look after your assets. This could include carrying out background checks on employees, researching the reputation of companies or making sure to use friends/family who you truly trust.
Fraud
Fraud involves being dishonest in order to get information, money, or property from someone. It can involve stealing someone’s identity, but could also involve simply telling lies. It is one of the most common and most complex forms of theft.
A carefully planned out fraud scheme is often a jailable offence. Small value fraud schemes, such as claiming a package wasn’t delivered when it was, typically don’t have quite as heavy penalties.
To avoid being a victim of fraud, keep your wits about you. Recording and keeping hold of evidence of your day-to-day interactions such as receipts, written confirmations or even dashcam footage can help you to disprove fraudsters.
Cybertheft
Cybertheft typically involves stealing information or money using digital means. It often relies on fraud tactics and can take many different forms including phishing, malware and ransomware. In other cases, cyberthieves may simply hack into an account or device.
Cybertheft is often punishable with jail time. In cases, where a device or account is hacked but nothing is taken, other penalties such as fines may be issued.
You can reduce the risk of cybertheft by making sure that you use strong passwords and that devices are protected with suitable security software. Always be wary of emails or social media messages that are requesting money or sensitive information – try to confirm that it is really them before you reveal any information or send them any money.