NCJ Number
149379
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 63 Issue: 7 Dated: (July 1994) Pages: 5-8
Date Published
1994
Length
4 pages
Annotation
Two major groups of traveling criminals in the United States, the Rom Gypsies and the Travelers, employ similar tactics to steal from unsuspecting victims.
Abstract
Estimated strengths of Gypsies and Travelers are 1 million and 6,000-10,000, respectively. Even though they use similar techniques, the two groups do not interact. Further, not all Gypsies and Travelers participate in illegal activities. Those who do engage in crime are typically on the road 40 to 70 percent of the year. Members of both groups often represent themselves as self-employed home improvement contractors. In most cases, some work is done, albeit of poor quality. Both groups have been known to search homes while negotiating or performing residential improvement jobs to look for cash and valuables. Gypsies specialize in fortune telling, often seeking out elderly victims or individuals who have recently had an emotionally distressing experience. They also engage in store diversions to steal cash receipts. Travelers are frequently involved in the sale of tools and shop equipment. Physical and other identifying features of Gypsies and Travelers are noted to aid law enforcement investigations and protect the public. 4 endnotes