NCJ Number
143787
Date Published
1990
Length
47 pages
Annotation
Four studies on car theft in Northern Ireland are used to examine the topic of juvenile "joyriding" in depth, from the attitudes and characteristics of the persistent car thief to the response of law enforcement authorities in dealing with the problem.
Abstract
Based on interviews with joyriders in West Belfast, the first study describes the social context of the phenomenon and profiles a typical joyrider, who has a strong sense of identity, is isolated from the community, has often dropped out of school, and uses joyriding as a means of attaining excitement and escape. A computerized study of car theft in South Belfast identified the total number of cars stolen during a specific study period, characteristics of the stolen vehicles, time of theft, and detection and recovery rates. A survey of car theft in Northern Ireland between 1980 and 1988 was conducted using available statistics. Recommendations for preventing car theft include preventive measures -- enhanced security systems, improved parking facilities, and publicity and educational campaigns -- as well as interventions aimed at meeting young people's need for exciting experiences and providing opportunities for success and status. 11 tables, 8 figures, 8 notes, and 11 references