The article is written by Lakshmi Sharma, from Vinoba Bhave University, University Law College, Hazaribagh ( Jharkhand)

The concept of crime is a complex one, and it is essential to understand the various stages of crime to fully comprehend the criminal justice system. In this article, we will explore the different stages of crime, along with relevant case laws and sections that demonstrate these stages.

Planning and Preparation Stage:

The first stage of a crime is planning and preparation. This stage involves the offender making preparations for the crime, such as acquiring weapons, scouting the location, and gathering information about the victim. This stage may also involve the offender seeking accomplices to assist in the commission of the crime.

One case that illustrates this stage is the case of R v Brown [1994] 1 AC 212. In this case, a group of men engaged in consensual acts of sadomasochism. The acts were planned and carried out over a period of time, and the participants had taken steps to ensure that they were not interrupted. The court held that this was a case of consensual violence and that the participants had engaged in the planning and preparation of the acts.

Attempt Stage:

The second stage of a crime is the attempt stage. At this stage, the offender has taken steps towards committing the crime but has not yet completed the act. For example, an offender may attempt to break into a house but is caught by the police before they can enter the property.

One case that demonstrates this stage is R v Jones [1990] 2 QB 783. In this case, the defendant attempted to rob a post office but was apprehended by a police officer before he could complete the robbery. The court held that the defendant had taken significant steps towards the commission of the crime and that his actions amounted to an attempt.

Commission Stage:

The third stage of a crime is the commission stage. At this stage, the offender has completed the act, and the crime has been committed. For example, if an offender successfully breaks into a house and steals valuable items, they have completed the commission stage.

One case that demonstrates this stage is R v Dudley and Stephens (1884) 14 QBD 273. In this case, the defendants, Dudley and Stephens, were stranded at sea and, after running out of food and water, killed and ate the cabin boy. The court held that the defendants had committed murder and that their actions were not justified, even though they were acting out of necessity.

Escape Stage:

The fourth stage of a crime is the escape stage. At this stage, the offender attempts to escape detection and arrest. This may involve fleeing the scene of the crime or attempting to cover up evidence.

One case that demonstrates this stage is R v Betts and Ridley [1994] 2 Cr App R 48. In this case, the defendants had burgled a house and then attempted to escape detection by setting fire to the property. The court held that the defendants had attempted to cover up their crime and that their actions amounted to an attempt to escape.

Frustration Stage:

The final stage of a crime is the frustration stage. At this stage, the offender has been caught and prevented from carrying out their plan. This may involve being arrested, having their plan foiled, or encountering other obstacles that prevent them from completing the crime.

One case that demonstrates this stage is R v Collins [1973] QB 100. In this case, the defendant had stolen a car and was attempting to drive away when he was stopped by a police officer. The court held that the defendant had been frustrated in his attempt to steal the car, and his actions amounted to an attempt.

In conclusion, understanding the stages of a crime is crucial to understanding the criminal justice system. Each stage is important and has its legal significance. By understanding these stages, we can better understand.

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