Anonymous asked this question on 4/13/2000:

why do people commit crimes?

tcsmpsi gave this response on 4/13/2000:

Why people commit crimes depends on the person, the crime, the circumstance, the environment, etc. For instance, driving in excess of a posted speed limit is a crime. One person may do this because they like to go fast, regardless of the Law, in this respect it would be truly a crime. Another may be heading to a hospital and in a hurry to get there, though it is technically a crime, it would not truly be a 'real crime' because of the lack of criminal intent or mens rea (latin for 'guilty mind'). Another person may just be going along and fail to notice that they are traveling in excess of the speed limit. This too is established crime, though there was no criminal intent, there was however the element of negligence, and since the negligence led to criminal activity, it is criminal negligence...a crime. All adults at some time or another end up committing a crime. Now, why do some people intentionally commit crime? Some feel forced to it through their environment, say, in order to feed their family, and all other avenues known to them have failed, they see no other way than to steal something. Some, in certain serial killer cases let's say, commit crime for emotional reasons. And yet, for some, it becomes a way of life. Perhaps, with this little bit of information, if there is more you would like to know about a particular crime, or type person, or environment, or circumstance, or situation, there can be a bit more focus into what you are looking for. If I can help, please do not hesitate to ask. tcsmpsi

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