Possible Criminal & Suspect Behavior Patterns

Possible Criminal/Suspect Behavior Patterns

● Criminals/suspects come from all races, nationalities and religions. Most criminals/suspects:

  • Do not stand out. They can look “normal” and frequently attempt to do so.
  • Commit the same crime over and over again, becoming good at it.
  • Commit economic crimes for money or property.
  • Attempt their activity in secrecy not in public.
  • Will avoid being seen and immediately attempt to leave when confronted. Will have some form of instrument to aid them in committing their crime.

Most criminals/suspects:

  • Will observe the area prior to committing a criminal act and continue to observe their surroundings while committing their crime.
  • Will flee or attempt to talk their way out of their actions when encountered.
  • May use aggressive acts to escape or avoid being apprehended.
  • Will have a lookout or co-suspect near by for assistance.
  • May be armed during the commission of their criminal acts. Always be aware of this fact and act accordingly.
  • Usually will attempt a criminal act on the easiest target of opportunity.
  • May be a gang members and can be identified by gang attire or tattoos. The officer, however, cannot use marks, scars or tattoos as the only justification or suspicion that person is a criminal/suspect.
  • Are committing crimes for the purpose of obtaining money for drugs. This fact may result in the suspect already being under the influence.
  • May be of any age and just assumption that they are males between the ages of 18-23. Juveniles, females and senior citizens may all be suspects and commit criminal acts.
  • Officers who encounter criminal activity or suspicious circumstances need to immediately contact the local police for assistance. The police are trained and responsible for criminal activity. Officers should never place themselves in harm’s way but rather serve as a witness and provide documentation of the incident for future criminal prosecution purposes.
  • Officers have the right to use force to arrest a suspect who is committing a criminal act. While this right exists, it may not be smart to attempt if they lack the ability.