Opportunistic Crime

Definition

Opportunistic crime refers to criminal acts that are committed when an individual sees a chance to take advantage of a situation, often without premeditation or planning. This type of crime is characterized by a lack of extensive motivation or desire, as the opportunity itself becomes the main driving force behind the act. In essence, individuals who engage in opportunistic crime tend to act on impulse when they perceive an unguarded moment or an easy target.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Opportunistic crimes often occur in environments where surveillance is low or where individuals feel they can act without being caught.
2. Common examples include thefts from cars left unlocked, shoplifting, or vandalism when no one is around.
3. The decision to commit an opportunistic crime usually hinges on immediate circumstances rather than long-term goals or desires.
4. Factors such as peer pressure or social influences can also play a role in prompting someone to commit an opportunistic crime at that moment.
5. Preventive measures like improved lighting, surveillance cameras, and community vigilance can significantly reduce the likelihood of opportunistic crimes occurring.

Review Questions

• How does situational crime prevention relate to the concept of opportunistic crime?
  • Situational crime prevention is directly linked to opportunistic crime because it focuses on reducing opportunities for criminal acts. By implementing measures such as better lighting, security systems, and neighborhood watch programs, communities can make it harder for individuals to find suitable targets or feel confident enough to act impulsively. This proactive approach addresses the environmental factors that lead to opportunistic crimes by increasing perceived risks for potential offenders.
• Discuss the role of Routine Activity Theory in understanding why opportunistic crimes occur more frequently in certain situations.
  • Routine Activity Theory helps explain the occurrence of opportunistic crimes by highlighting three key elements: a motivated offender, a suitable target, and a lack of capable guardianship. When these elements align, the chances of an opportunistic crime happening increase. For instance, if a person notices an unattended bag in a crowded area with no one watching, they may feel compelled to steal it. This theory emphasizes that crime is not random but rather influenced by everyday activities and situations.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of community strategies aimed at reducing opportunistic crime based on the principles of neoclassical criminology and rational choice theory.
  • Community strategies aimed at reducing opportunistic crime can be highly effective when aligned with the principles of neoclassical criminology and rational choice theory. These theories suggest that individuals weigh the costs and benefits before engaging in criminal acts. By enhancing situational factors—such as increasing surveillance or implementing neighborhood watch programs—communities can elevate the perceived risks associated with committing opportunistic crimes. Consequently, potential offenders may reconsider their choices when faced with heightened security measures, leading to a decrease in impulsive criminal behavior.

Related terms

Situational Crime Prevention: A strategy that aims to reduce the opportunity for crime by increasing the risks and difficulties associated with criminal acts.

Routine Activity Theory: A theory suggesting that crime occurs when a motivated offender encounters a suitable target without capable guardianship.

Impulsive Behavior: Actions taken without forethought or consideration of consequences, often leading to rash decisions, including criminal acts.