The various phases or processes that take place between having the idea to commit a crime and actually carrying it out are referred to as the stages of a crime.
Typical Stages of a Crime
- Intent: The first stage of a crime is the intent to commit the offense. The intent may be formed through various circumstances, such as anger, jealousy, greed, or desire for revenge.
- Planning: The second stage of a crime involves planning the commission of the offense. This may include selecting the target, choosing the time and place, gathering necessary tools or weapons, and considering possible escape routes.
- Preparation: The third stage of a crime involves making necessary preparations for committing the offense, such as casing the location, breaking into a building, or buying necessary supplies.
- Attempt: The fourth stage of a crime involves attempting to commit the offense. This may include physically carrying out the act, such as firing a weapon, stealing property, or assaulting someone.
- Completion: The final stage of a crime involves the completion of the offense. This may include successfully stealing the property, causing physical harm to another person, or causing damage to property.
Undefined Stages of Crime
The stages of crime under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) are not explicitly defined. However, the IPC does describe various stages of certain offenses, which can be considered as stages of a crime.
Few Examples:
- Abetment: Abetment is the act of instigating or encouraging another person to commit a crime. The IPC recognizes three stages of abetment: (i) instigation, (ii) conspiracy, and (iii) aiding.
- Attempt to commit an offense: Section 511 of the IPC deals with the offense of attempt to commit a crime. It is an offense to attempt to commit an offense punishable with imprisonment or any other serious punishment under the IPC. Attempting to commit a crime involves taking some step towards the commission of the crime but failing to complete the offense.
- Criminal conspiracy: Section 120-A of the IPC defines criminal conspiracy as an agreement between two or more persons to commit an offense. The conspiracy may involve planning, preparation, or attempt to commit the crime.
- Preparation to commit an offense: Certain offenses under the IPC involve a specific stage of preparation, such as Section 399 (preparation to commit dacoity) and Section 400 (preparation to commit dacoity).
