How does the routine activity theory crime influence criminal offenders?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

According to routine activity theory, crime will occur at locations where a motivated offender, a suitable target, and a lack of capable guardians come together. Because, at least in theory, a prison consists entirely of motivated offenders, there is a heightened likelihood that some form of criminal activity or victimization will occur. The presumption is that prison security--in terms of both personnel and security mechanisms--will be able to thwart the attempts of such offenders to commit crimes while in prison. However, we know that trafficking and trading of contraband continue within the walls of prisons. Different forms of victimization also occur, as do illicit activities such as gambling. Thus, it seems that there are indeed suitable targets (victims or, in victimless crimes, activities), and the guardians of the prison (security staff) may not always be capable of detecting and preventing this behavior. The prevention of institutional infractions and victimization within prisons consists of many facets. First, security staff members’ awareness of blind spots will enhance their ability to detect and prevent infractions. Second, the usefulness of technology can be enhanced when it is utilized within key areas that are vulnerable to inmate exploitation. Third, since the design of the facility itself will naturally affect inmate traffic flow, creating areas where more contact between inmates will occur, special care should be taken in these areas. Last, the operational schedule of the institution will affect the ebb and flow of likely violations as inmates are moved from one function to another throughout the daily routine of prison operations, so security staff should be on high alert during these times.