Developments in the Market for Stolen Goods

• In Event: Economic Crime and Property Crime

Abstract

Stolen goods may be intended for personal use, but a significant portion of these items are often sold. Conducting surveys is one method used to gain insight into the market for stolen goods. The underlying assumption is that individuals may become aware when offered stolen merchandise. In such cases, citizens may provide information about the goods offered and the channels through which they are being sold. Although respondents are asked whether they have purchased the item, the reliability of their answers is questionable.

In Denmark, such surveys among random citizens were conducted in 2016, 2020, and 2024. By employing a consistent set of questions across these surveys, it becomes possible to identify trends and changes within these markets. This includes determining whether certain products have become more or less popular over time and if there have been shifts in selling channels.

In this presentation, these questions will be addressed and analyzed in relation to criminological theories about the market for stolen goods (Clarke, 1999; Sutton, 2010).

Author

• Peter Kruize, Center for Crime Analysis