Geographic Study of Motorcycle Theft in Los Angeles County

Motorcycle theft, as a topic of study, has been predominantly studied in conjunction with automobile theft but not as a stand-alone issue. The motivations and rationalization of criminals committing property crimes may be similar, but it is the goal of this research thesis to illuminate more specific reasons why thieves target motorcycles. The study is of increased significance in California and Los Angeles County. California has been ranked the number one state in motorcycle theft for years, and Los Angeles County specifically has more thefts than most states. This paper seeks to analyze the demand for motorcycles, criminal methodology, and the social and environmental variables helping to facilitate theft. Through geographic visualization and statistical regression evaluation, this thesis will attempt to isolate the most factors that have made Los Angeles County one of the most precarious places to own a motorcycle.