Scientific Study Shows Alarm Systems Deter Burglars

A scientific survey concluded that burglars are often deterred from specific targets that have alarm systems installed. The study conducted by criminal justice professors from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC) interviewed 422 incarcerated male and female burglars. The study found that:

• 83% would try to determine if an alarm was present before attempting a burglary
• 60% stated that an alarm system would make them seek an different target.
• More than half of the burglars said they would abort the burglary if they discovered an alarm.
• 60% of the burglars said they would consider the presence of cameras or other surveillance equipment when selecting a target, and more than 40% said that would be a factor in prompting them to choose another target.

Almost 90% of the burglars stated that their top reason for committing burglaries was related to acquire drugs (51%) and get money (37%) often used to support a drug habit.

Another interesting finding in this study is that 41% stated a burglary was often a “spur of the moment” event.

The study gives insight to what prompts an intrude to select a target and what motivates one to burglarize.

To read the entire UNC study, follow this link. (Opens PDF of study)