False Reports of Theft

Abstract In the United States, false reports of theft are found in association with all manners of burglaries; robberies; grand theft auto; and identity thefts. To be clear, these are cases in which someone has falsely reported that a theft has occurred. Sometimes they have even staged an attack, complete with injuries and other evidence, to convince authorities. Motives in these false report cases most often include profit , concealment of negligence , crime concealment , criminal facilitation , attention , and revenge . It is not possible to get inside the mind of anyone. However, motive can be inferred and interpreted by a careful examination of the physical and behavioral evidence. While there are red flags for false reporting, it is their totality and context that allow for conclusive determinations. One red flag in isolation is not dispositive. Consequently, professional investigators and examiners understand their duty of care: all reported crime must be investigated, to include the careful examination of all available evidence, before professional opinions may be given. Otherwise liability may result.