)
findings show that Offenders used two main methods for gaining entry
to vehicles:
- forcing the locks on the vehicle, and
- smashing a window .
The pattern is fairly similar to that from the
1998 BCS. However, there has been a rise in ‘other’ methods,
from 5% in the 1998 BCS to 10% in 2000. This is possibly a result of
offenders trying to overcome improved vehicle security measures.
The pattern for attempted thefts is also similar. Offenders tried
to force locks in nearly 70% of incidents and smash windows in 17%.