Crime Vocabulary
This crime is committed when property is taken by force or threat.
robbery
A person found guilty is given this by the judge.
sentence
Change into passive: “The police arrested the suspect.”
The suspect was arrested (by the police).
Transform: “People say the criminal is hiding abroad.”
The criminal is said to be hiding abroad.
To escape from prison.
Break out
Breaking into a house to steal is called this.
burglary
Paying money instead of going to prison.
fine
Change into passive: “The jury will reach a verdict tomorrow.”
A verdict will be reached tomorrow (by the jury).
Transform: “They believe he committed fraud."
He is believed to have committed fraud.
To attack and rob someone in the street.
mug / mugging / hold up
A person who deliberately sets fire to property commits this crime.
arson
Early release from prison for good behavior.
parole
Correct passive form: “The evidence _____ (examine) by experts.”
The evidence is being examined by experts.
Transform: “People think the gang stole the jewels.”
The gang is thought to have stolen the jewels.
To enter a place illegally.
Break into
Fraud committed via the internet is often called this.
cybercrime
Being forced to do unpaid work instead of prison.
community service
Change into passive: “They have charged him with theft.”
He has been charged with theft.
Transform: “It is said that she lied in court.”
She is said to have lied in court.
To delay or obstruct justice, often by hiding evidence or lying.
Cover up
A person who illegally trades or sells drugs is guilty of this crime.
drug trafficking
When a trial is declared invalid due to error or misconduct.
mistrial
Rewrite in passive: “They are questioning three witnesses.”
Three witnesses are being questioned.
Transform: “They allege he took a bribe.”
He is alleged to have taken a bribe.
To officially forgive a criminal.
Let off