Stacy Williams Bus Crime

Crime is everywhere. There is no place where you can go that doesn’t have at least one piece of information about crime and criminals. The internet has made it possible for people to share research, fact-check politicians, and find jobs in law enforcement. However, it has also created an environment where bad actors are free to operate with impunity. Even those who want to do the right thing can find themselves caught up in a web of lies, deceit, and shame. Crime affects everyone from the perspective of having a family member or friend go through it, whether they are involved in a violent offense or witness one down the street. It is not something that we should ever accept as normal or something that we should just “accept as happening” — even if it hurts us personally or makes us feel like part of our community is unsafe.

What is Crime?

There are many terms that are used to describe criminal activity, but one of the most commonly used to describe the act is “crime.” In simple terms, it is the act of committing a prohibited action. Many people, when thinking about crime, are immediately concerned with law enforcement; however, the role that the media, the judicial system, and the community all play in the criminal justice system is just as important. Typically, the word “crime” is used to describe a violation of the law. However, the concept of crime encompasses behaviors that fall under any of the following headings: assault, escape, drugs, embezzlement, fraud, harassment, animal abuse, and vehicle traffic violations. It can be easy to conflate the “what” and the “why” behind certain acts of crime. While the “why” is almost always rooted in complex social issues, the “what” is what happens when people break the law. The “what” might be a crime in one area of the country, but it could be considered a civil matter in another. Understanding the “what” behind a crime is as important as understanding the “why” behind it.

What Is the Crime Cycle?

The crime cycle is a theory that postulates that certain types of crime are more likely to happen during specific times of the day, while others are more likely to happen at particular places. While this theory can and has been applied to many types of crimes, it can be most accurately described as a hypothesis, not a theory. However, the theory still offers some useful insights, particularly with regard to the timing and location of crimes. The theory assumes that criminals are motivated by a combination of factors that may include the need for power, gain, or glory, as well as the desire to escape justice. The cycle postulates that most crimes fall into one of three categories: daytime, evening, or night time. The theory explains that during these times of the day, the need for transportation, work, or school may lead criminals to select certain places to commit their crimes. In many cases, this may be the result of organizational or environmental factors.

How to Stay Safe during a Crime Scare

Don’t let your guard down. Even when you feel like you’ve “seen it all” and you know what to expect in a given situation, there may be times when you are wrong. Be especially wary of taking risks during a large event, such as a sporting event or festivals. Pay particular attention to your surroundings at large gatherings of people, like concerts or boat parties. As with any situation, if you feel in danger, run away from the scene as fast as possible and call 9-1-1. If you are not in danger, but instead feel afraid or alone, look to connect your experience to that of others. Try to shield yourself from victim-blaming by making sure to include your experience, location, and the situation in which you found yourself in on the person who was asking for it.

Where to Turn for Help While Traumatized or in Crisis

It is always better to be safe than sorry, and there are a number of steps you can take to ensure that you are safe during a crisis. First, always seek out help. Even if you think you can handle things on your own, sometimes you need to seek out the assistance of others. Second, immediately call 911 if you are experiencing a crisis, like a physical illness, a financial difficulty, or an extreme legal situation. You don’t need to call “just in case” — especially when there is a real possibility that you could end up in that situation. Third, if you are in a situation where you feel like you need to call the police, but don’t actually know where to go, try to go to someone’s house or call a friend who lives nearby. They may be able to help you out.

How to Help a Crime Victim

After you’ve gotten yourself safer, the next step is to help the victim of a crime. It is important to remember that even though the victim of a crime may be afraid or ashamed, they are just as capable of feeling anger or frustration as you. When someone reports a crime to you, it is important to listen attentively and without judgment. You do not need to know the whole story, just as long as you know where the person is coming from. The more open you are with the person you are helping, the better. Sharing information, like telling a story, allows the other person to share their own experience and allows you to better understand one another.

Bottom line

Crimes affect everyone, whether they are the victim or the perpetrator. The effects of crime are felt deeply by both the victim and the victim’s family, friends, and neighbors. Knowing what to expect in different situations can make the difference in avoiding hurt or frustration.