A life of crime might seem to be pretty much the same everywhere. But it turns out that, for burglars at least, the location of the crime – specifically, the state in which it’s committed – makes a big difference. From the burglar’s standpoint, some states are definitely worse than others, when it comes to jail sentences, fines, and even the likelihood of getting shot by a homeowner.
The worst state in the U.S. for burglars is Virginia, whose laws include a maximum life sentence and a maximum fine of $100,000. Only slightly less tough are South Carolina and Alabama. And some states offer their own surprising twists. Take Florida, for instance, where penalties are increased for thefts committed during a state of emergency. The bottom line: Crime doesn’t pay, no matter where you go. But some places are tougher on criminals than others. Here’s a look at the 13 worst states for burglars.
