Final answer:
A capable guardian, according to the routine activities theory, is an individual or mechanism that prevents crime by being present and able to intervene, thereby increasing the risk of apprehension for potential offenders. This can include police officers, security systems, or attentive citizens.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of a capable guardian comes from the routine activities theory in criminology. According to this theory, for a crime to occur, three elements must be present: a motivated offender, a suitable target, and the absence of a capable guardian.
A capable guardian is someone or something that can effectively discourage criminal activities. This can be anyone who is present and able to intervene, such as police officers, security guards, or even everyday citizens who are attentive to their surroundings. The presence of capable guardians is believed to help prevent crime by increasing the risk of apprehension for potential offenders.
Guardians can also be non-traditional, such as good lighting, alarm systems, or community surveillance programs, which play an essential role in reducing opportunities for crime to take place. In essence, the concept underscores the importance of vigilance and the deterrent effect of potential oversight on criminal behavior.