Attempted Crimes

An actual crime is not necessary in order to charge a person with an attempted offense. Attempting a felony is a felony crime in and of itself. State criminal laws define an attempt as the doing of an act, with specific intent to commit a crime that is more than mere preparation but fails to be completed. For example, a person stealing and writing down security gate passwords, obtaining guard schedules and videotaping the premises could be charged with attempted robbery. The crime of attempting an offense is often a degree less severe than the crime intended.