Results of the Residential Break and Enter Offender Study

Emma WorthingtonAndrew Webber

Background of the Study

229 offenders interviewed

17 correctional centres

66% response rate

Asked:

– About experiences

– About demographics

– To rate characteristics of homes

Age of Offenders Interviewed

Motivation for Offending

Drugs Taken (Comparison)

Income Gained (Comparison)

Choosing Targets

Checklist of Home Features

Imagine a home you are thinking of breaking into. Let’s say you are 50/50 right now on whether to break in. I’m going to change something about the home, and I want you to tell me whether you would break in now.

Checklist of Home Features

Detractors

Attractors

No Difference

Average Rating

Typologies: Inexperienced

Summary of Features

Detractors Mixed Attractors

Photo Features

Summary of Features

Detractors Mixed Attractors

Conclusion

Offenders are experts

Primarily motivated by drugs, but:

– Respond rationally to cues

– Consciously consider cues

Some features more effective

– Useful for evidence-based policy

Policy Recommendations

Drug treatment for offenders

Awareness raising re: security/design features (for public and industry)