Chapter 10 – Crimes Against Property

• Crimes against property include crimes in which property is destroyed (like arson and vandalism) and crimes in which property is stolen or taken against the will of the owner. (such as robbery and embezzlement)

Arson

• Arson is the willful burning of another’s person’s property.

• Even if you own the building or property, it is unlawful for you to “burn it down”.

• Setting fire to a building with the intent to defraud the insurance company is illegal also.

• In 1996 the Church Arson Prevention Act was passed

Vandalism

• Vandalism is the willful destruction of or damage to, the property of another.

• This crime cost all of us millions of dollars per year.

• Examples of vandalism• Depending upon the

damage, it can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony

Embezzlement

• Embezzlement is the unlawful taking of property by someone to whom it was entrusted.

• Example - bank tellers who take money out of their drawer

Larceny

• Larceny is the unlawful taking, and carrying away of the property of another with the intent to steal it.– Theft (Shoplifting, Auto Theft)

• In most states, it is separated into two categories:– Grand Larceny – valued over $100– Petty Larceny – valued under $100

Burglary

• Burglary is the unauthorized entry into any structure with the intent to commit a crime, regardless of the time of day.

Robbery

• Robbery is the unlawful taking of property from a person’s immediate possession by force or intimidation.

• Robbery is almost always a felony, but most states have stricter penalties for armed robbery

• The difference between robbery and larceny/burglary is the potential or act of force.

Extortion• Extortion is the use of

threats to obtain the property of another.

• Usually called “blackmail”

• Ex: A person threatens to harm you unless you give them $1,000,000

Extortion

• Blackmail

Forgery

• Forgery is a crime in which a person makes or alters a writing or document with intent to take advantage of someone/thing.

• Includes signing, without permission, the name of another person to a check or other document.

Cybercrime

• Used in crimes against the person and against property

• Examples:– Theft– Stalking– Viruses– Identity Theft– Music Piracy

• Cyber-based Terrorism