crime vocab Flashcards
What does it mean to abduct someone?
To take someone away illegally, usually by force, kidnap
Abduction is often associated with kidnapping and involves the illegal taking of a person.
Define assault.
To attack someone physically and verbally
Assault can involve both physical attacks and threats of violence.
What is blackmail?
To demand money or favors for someone by threatening to reveal a secret
Blackmail is a form of extortion that leverages personal information.
What does it mean to bribe someone?
To offer money or gifts to influence someone’s decision illegally
Bribery undermines trust and fairness in decision-making.
What is the act of burgling?
To enter a building illegally to steal things
Burgling is a form of theft that typically involves breaking and entering.
What does it mean to commit a crime?
To carry out a crime, for example committing murders, committing fraud
Committing a crime can refer to various illegal activities.
Define defraud.
To cheat someone out of money through deception
Defrauding often involves fraudulent schemes or misrepresentation.
What does it mean to embezzle?
To steal money that you were trusted to manage
Embezzlement typically occurs in a workplace or financial setting.
What is extortion?
To get money or favors through threats or force
Extortion is illegal and often involves coercion.
What is forgery?
To make fake documents, money, or signatures with criminal intent
Forgery can lead to serious legal consequences.
What does it mean to hijack a vehicle?
To take control of a vehicle by force
Hijacking can involve airplanes, cars, or other forms of transportation.
What is meant by looting?
To steal goods, especially during war, riots, or disasters
Looting often occurs when law and order break down.
Define mugging.
To attack and rob someone in a public place
Mugging typically involves physical violence or intimidation.
What does it mean to perjure oneself?
To lie under oath in a court of law
Perjury is a serious offense that can lead to legal penalties.
What is pickpocketing?
To steal from someone’s pocket or bag without them noticing
Pickpocketing is often seen in crowded places.
What does it mean to shoplift?
To steal goods from a store
Shoplifting can involve various tactics to evade detection.
What does it mean to smuggle?
To bring things or people illegally across borders
Smuggling can involve drugs, weapons, or illegal immigrants.
What is swindling?
To cheat someone out of money or PROPERTY
Swindling can occur in various forms, including scams.
Define vandalism.
To damage or destroy property on purpose
Vandalism can include graffiti, breaking windows, and other forms of destruction.
What does it mean to trespass?
To enter someone’s land or property without permission
Trespassing can lead to legal action from property owners.
