Recurring Victimization
Other Key Aspects
Types
Theories
Risk Heterogeneity (aka "Flag") Theory
Lifestyle-Routine Activities Theory
Event/State Dependence (aka "Boost") Theory
Rational Choice Theory
Series Victimization
Multiple Victimization
Revictimization
Virtual Repeat Victimization
Victims experience two or more types of crime within a period of time (about a year)
Being victimized once increases a target;s chances of being victimized a subsequent time
Certain victims possess characteristics that make them likely targets for both an initial victimization and recurring subsequent victimization
Provides a useful framework for the Risk Heterogeneity Perspective to explain recurring victimization and how and why repeatedly victimized targets may be susceptible or vulnerable to offenders
When offenders are deciding whether or not to take advantage of criminal opportunities, they think about the potential costs and the potential benefits
Repeat Victimization
Near Repeat Victimization
When a victim experiences the same type of victimization two or more times within a specified time period (usually relatively short)
When victims experience some type of victimization and are victimized again at a later time in life
Victims experience similar types of crimes repeatedly as part of a related sequence of incidents within a specified time period (about six months to a year)
Offenders selecting nearby targets for subsequent victimization rather than the previously victimized targets, based on similarity of target or situation
Targets are chosen by offenders because they have characteristics similar to those of previously victimized targets
Polyvictimization
Applied to the victimization of children; occurs when a minor is frequently targeted for a variety of types of victimization within a reference period (usually a year)
Basics
Prevention
Definition
If future victimizations are prevented, crime rates should decline
Time Course
Crime Switching (Subsequent Victimization)
Two Main Patterns
When the same individual or his/her property is victimized two or more times
Crime Concentrates
Recurring Victims
A small portion of victims are targeted for victimization multiple times in their lives
Make up a small portion of individuals who are victimized, but a large portion of all victimization incidents
Hot Spots
Risky Facilities
Repeat Offenders
Hot Products
Proximity to victimized targets increases victimization risks for nearby targets
Two Main Findings
When a repeat victimization occurs, it is likely to be soon after the first victimization incident
The period of heightened risk of subsequent victimization dissipates over time
Hypotheses
The initial offenders share information with their criminal associates about remaining crims opportunities at the previously victimized household
The house possesses characteristics that make it as attractive target for victimization
The same offenders return to their previous target
Most recurrent victims experience the same type of victimization in the subsequent incident
Crime switching does occur, but it is a relatively rare phenomenon
One crime/victimization "boosts" to the next
Characteristics can raise "flags" or signals to offenders (convenient location, SES, etc.)
Key Components
Proximity
Exposure
Target Attractiveness
(Lack of) Guardianship
Resources may only need to be in place for a short time following the first incident
Rational offenders will be likely to reoffend against targets that previously brought them benefits