Grand Theft Auto takes a turn at stopping crime
Last month Grand Theft Auto: San Andreas was singled out by a coalition of religious and family groups as too violent. The group criticized any company that creates a product that glorifies murder and hate crimes; and denounced retailers that sold such games. Maybe they spoke up too soon. Near Houston, at least one crime was prevented by Grand Theft Auto.
Last March two children were at home playing Grand Theft Auto when burglars broke into their house. The game happened to be at a point where it blares out “This is the police! You’re surrounded!”. The criminals mistook the game for the real thing and ran from the house.
3 of the 4 burglars have been convicted, with the fourth waiting trial.
As a quick aside, I do not agree with excessively violent video games. However, I don’t feel that this game should be banned simply because of violence. Parents need to take the responsibility for their children and stop blaming the video games when their child performs a violent act. Ok, rant over.
Source: CNet News.com - ‘Grand Theft Auto’: Keeping America safe from crime