Let’s learn some phrasal verbs related to crime and the Criminal Justice System.
look into = investigate
Researchers are looking into the root causes of crime.
look for = search/seek
Opportunists look for any chance to take advantage of others.
lock up = incarcerate (put in prison)
The most dangerous inmates are locked up in maximum security facilities.
tip off = warn of an impending crime
Someone overheard the men planning the kidnapping, and tipped off the police.
own up to = to confess
Few suspects own up to their misdeeds during investigation.
stake out = monitor a place in secret
The agents are staking out the hotel where the terrorist are staying.
run away / get away = escape
The hostages were able to untie themselves and run away.
run after = chase/pursue
The K9 ran after and subdued the suspect.
set up = make an innocent person look guilty
The woman set her husband up to look like the murderer.
hold up = to rob a place
The teenagers held up the liquor store.
do away with = to kill/murder
The investigators think the suspect planned to do away with his victim.
get away with = evade punishment for something
Criminals cover their tracks, to try to get away with their illegal actions.
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