The elements of theft and how to prevent it
Motive: The Desire to
commit a crime. We
rarely can reduce a
person’s desire to
commit a theft
Means
Like a three legged stool needs three legs to stay upright, theft requires three elements in order to allow it to occur.
Opportunity: A victim and / or
chance to commit a crime.
Here is where we can limit
our chance of being
victimized the most. By not
providing a thief a window of
opportunity, theft cannot
occur. Lock up your office
and belongings. Do not leave
your things unattended. Pay
attention to your
surroundings.
Means: The ability to commit a crime. If
someone with the motive to commit a crime
is also physically able, it is very difficult to
eliminate the means.