Throughout history, people have been the victims of pickpockets. Today, pocket-picking is one of the most rapidly increasing crimes. Pickpockets are increasing (76) and developing better methods to practise their skill. (77) one million Americans lose money to pickpockets every year, no one is really safe (78) a skilled pickpocket. His victims, or marks’ (79) they are called, can be rich or poor, young or old.
During the 18th century, pickpockets (80) in England. Large crowds of people would gather to watch the hanging which was supposed to be a warning to other pickpockets. (81) , in time the practice was discontinued.
Police official say that most efficient pickpockets come from South America. Many of these expert pickpockets (82) in special schools called Jingle Bell School. A pickpocket graduates from a J. B.S. (83) he is able to steal a wallet from a dressed dummy (人体模型) that has bells inside its pockets!
Some of the (84) places of pickpockets are banks, airports, supermarkets, train and bus stations. Oftentimes a pickpocket will work with another pickpocket as his partner.
(85) being the victim of a pickpocket, it is important to be very careful when in the midst of large gatherings of people.