Most crimes require the convergence of a motivated offender and a lack of guardianship

Developed by Marcus Felson and Lawrence Cohen, routine activity theory identifies three essential elements for a crime to occur: a motivated offender, a suitable target, and the absence of a capable guardian. A 'guardian' is not necessarily a police officer; it can be a watchful neighbor, a bright streetlamp, or even a locked gate that disrupts the opportunity for a crime.