do thieves tool have screwdriver

Do Thieves’ Tools Include Screwdrivers?

Thieves’ tools, also known as lock picks or locksmith tools, are specialized devices used to open locks without keys. But do they typically include a simple household item like a screwdriver? Let’s take a closer look.

What Are Thieves’ Tools?

Thieves’ tools encompass a variety of devices designed to bypass or open locks. Some common examples include:

• Lock picks – These are thin, flat pieces of metal used to manipulate the inner mechanisms of pin and tumbler locks. Lock picks come in a variety of shapes and sizes for different jobs.
• Tension wrenches – A tension wrench applies torque to the lock cylinder while picking. It comes in useful shapes like letter L, Z, and U.
• Rake picks – Rake picks rapidly slide over the lock pins to set them. They open some locks through repeated raking motion instead of picking each pin individually.
• Bump keys – Specially cut keys are inserted forcefully to bounce the lock pins into the shear line. This momentarily opens the lock until the key is removed.
• Snap guns – A snap gun uses sudden force to break the cylinder off cheaper padlocks.
• Shims – These thin strips of metal can bypass some padlocks and latches when inserted in the gap between the shackle and lock body.

You’ll notice screwdrivers don’t make the list. That’s because thieves’ tools are specifically designed for lock manipulation, while screwdrivers are everyday tools with legitimate uses.

When Are Screwdrivers Considered Thieves’ Tools?

Simply owning or carrying a screwdriver is not illegal. However, intent matters greatly here. If someone possesses a screwdriver along with lock picks, shims, or other suspicious items, then the screwdriver takes on a different meaning.
Law enforcement may argue the screwdriver now constitutes part of a thieves’ toolkit intended for illegal entry. This could potentially lead to charges like possession of burglary tools or possession of criminal tools.
So in summary:

• A standalone screwdriver is generally lawful to own.
• But a screwdriver carried with actual locksmith tools could be considered illegal, depending on context.

Why Would a Thief Use a Screwdriver?

While screwdrivers are not specifically designed for lock manipulation, creative thieves may be able to use them to force open cheap padlocks, bypass door latches, open window locks, and even make crude lock picks if no other tools are available.
Common techniques include:

• Inserting the screwdriver tip into a padlock body and twisting to break it open.
• Sliding the shaft between a door and frame to bypass the latch.
• Turning window lock screws to disengage the mechanism.
• Filing the tip to create makeshift lock picks.
• Using the screwdriver handle as an improvised tension wrench.

So in a pinch, a simple screwdriver can offer some basic lock manipulation functionality.

Legal Considerations

As mentioned earlier, simply possessing a screwdriver is not illegal. But intent means everything. If you’re arrested with a screwdriver plus evidence you planned to use it for break-ins – such as tips on forced entry in your smartphone notes app (as one real example) – then expect the screwdriver to be considered a burglary tool.
The amount of damage and type of lock also plays a role. For example, forcibly prying open an inexpensive padlock would likely be viewed as attempted petty theft. But using tools to pick the high-security lock on a bank door clearly demonstrates intent to commit a more serious felony.
In short:

• Carrying just a screwdriver = legal
• Carrying a screwdriver plus thieves tools = illegal possession of burglary instruments
• Actually using the screwdriver to illegally enter property = burglary, trespassing, larceny, or related charges depending on circumstances

So don’t commit crimes, but also don’t carry around items that make you look like a criminal!

Preventing Screwdriver Entry

While padlocks and simple latches can often be defeated with basic tools, high-security locks present a much tougher barrier.
Upgrading to robust door and window locks makes forced entry with improvised tools difficult. For example, modern high-security cylinders defend against bumping, picking, drilling, and other physical attacks. Installing visible security also deters would-be intruders.

Other Security Tips

Here are some other quick ways to protect your property:

• Install alarms and surveillance cameras
• Ensure all doors, windows, and fences are well-maintained
• Keep landscaping trimmed away from entry points
• Make sure exterior lighting is functioning
• Don’t leave ladders or tools outside that could assist intruders

Taking sensible precautions reduces vulnerability to all types of break-in methods.

The Bottom Line

While screwdrivers themselves are not illegal to own, carrying one along with actual thieves’ tools would likely constitute possession of burglary instruments. Law enforcement can argue the screwdriver is intended for forced illegal entry based on context and other factors.