Pickpocketing is the act of stealing from someone's pockets or bags without their knowledge or immediate awareness. It is a form of theft that relies on stealth and often involves quick, skillful maneuvers to extract valuables, such as wallets, phones, or jewelry. Pickpockets typically operate in crowded environments where they can blend in and exploit the distraction or lack of vigilance of their targets. The success of pickpocketing depends on the perpetrator's ability to avoid detection and escape before the victim realizes they have been robbed. The crime is considered a violation of personal space and trust and is punishable by law.
Pickpocketing meaning with examples
- The bustling train station was a pickpocket's paradise. A seasoned pickpocket, skillfully navigated the crowded platform, his eyes scanning for unsuspecting victims carrying expensive purses. He swiftly lifted a wallet from a distracted businessman's coat pocket, disappearing into the throng before the man even noticed the loss.
- During the busy holiday shopping season, security warnings were issued about the rise in pickpocketing incidents. One woman, while engrossed in a window display, fell prey to a pickpocket who expertly lifted her phone from her open handbag, showcasing the importance of situational awareness.
- The undercover police operation aimed to crack down on pickpocketing rings operating in the city's tourist hotspots. The officers, posing as tourists, managed to catch several pickpockets in the act, highlighting the challenges of combating this elusive form of theft.
- The investigation into the art theft revealed that the thief employed pickpocketing tactics to acquire the necessary security passes. The pickpocket was hired by the thief. The investigators recovered a detailed account of the pickpocketing from several witnesses, helping them build a case against the primary suspect.