The motivated offender is considered to be a given as there will always be people who will seize 
opportunities to commit criminal offenses. Besides, there a variety of theories to explain why people commit 
a crime. Suitable targets can be vacant houses, parked cars, a person, or any item. In reality, almost anything 
can be a suitable target. Finally, the absence of a capable guardian facilitates the criminal event. What can 
serve as a “capable” guardian? A plethora of people and things can serve as a guardian. For example, police 
officers, security guards, a dog, being at home, increased lighting to allow other people to see, CCTV, alarm 
systems, and deadbolt locks can each reduce opportunities by serving as a capable guardian. Routine activity 
theory concentrates on the criminal event instead of the criminal offender. 
Introduction to the American Criminal Justice System
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