How Crime Works: A Glimpse into the World of Burglary Gangs

🔑Burglary gangs are often formed by individuals who already know each other through various connections.

🚪Burglars prioritize finding the weakest entry points in buildings, such as semidetached houses or houses on corners.

🔐Dismantling alarm systems is a common technique used by burglary gangs to disable the first level of protection.

💼Burglary gangs have established networks and channels to sell stolen goods, often involving jewelers, antiques dealers, and private collectors.

💰The proceeds of a burglary are usually divided among gang members, used to fund lifestyles or invested for future crimes.

How do burglary gangs choose their targets?

—Burglary gangs select targets based on specific information, surveillance, or through insiders like disgruntled employees.

Do burglary gangs use violence?

—Burglary gangs aim to control situations without unnecessary violence, using weapons primarily for dominance and to command compliance.

What are some common hiding places for stolen items?

—Stolen items are often hidden in master bedrooms, cupboards, jewelry boxes, or even safes within the targeted properties.

How do burglary gangs dispose of stolen goods?

—Burglary gangs have established networks of jewelers, antiques dealers, and private collectors who help in the disposal of stolen goods.

What are the risks involved in the criminal lifestyle?

—Engaging in criminal activities poses risks such as arrest, prison sentences, and the potential for violence or harm to oneself or others.

00:00Stephen Gillen introduces himself and shares his experience as the leader of an organized burglary gang.

01:05Burglary gangs are often formed by individuals who already have connections through school, work, or other forms of organized crime.

03:19Burglary gangs target houses with weak entry points, such as semidetached houses or houses on corners.

05:32Disabling alarm systems is a common technique used by burglary gangs to bypass the first level of protection.

09:31Stolen goods are typically sold through established networks of jewelers, antiques dealers, and private collectors.

10:51The proceeds of a burglary are divided among gang members and used for various purposes, such as funding lifestyles or investing in future crimes.

12:57Engaging in a criminal lifestyle can lead to arrests, prison sentences, and a cycle of violence and harm.

14:57Stephen Gillen reflects on his transformation and the importance of support systems and opportunities to prevent individuals from turning to a life of crime.