The Risk of Co-offending at Shopping Malls: A Comparison between Juvenile and Adult Offenders

Research suggests that co-offending among juveniles can be problematic. Few studies examine how specific locations moderate the relationship between age, co-offending, and subsequent violence. Using the National Incident-Based Reporting System (2016–2020), this study will analyze the influence of age on the impact of solo and co-offending in shopping malls while considering situational factors that affect victim injuries. By treating the shopping mall as a consistent environment, this paper investigates the correlation between age and co-offending using the logic of offender convergence settings. Findings show that when juveniles engage in co-offending behavior, they are more likely to do so at shopping malls. Implications for theoretical progress, security strategies, and potential research are also addressed.