This study was designed to explain variations in crime rates and to examine the deterrent effects of sanctions on crime. The study concentrated on bank robberies, but it also examined burglaries and other kinds of robberies. In examining these effects the study condidered three sets of factors: (1) Economic considerations-- the cost/benefit factors that individuals consider in deciding whether or not to perform a crime, (2) Degree of anomie--the amount of alienation and isolation individuals feel toward society and the effect of these feelings on the individuals' performing a crime, and (3) Opportunity--the effect of exposure, attractiveness, and degree of guardianship on an object being taken. These factors were explored by gathering information on such topics as: crime clearance rates, arrests, and sentences, bank attributes, and socioeconomic and demographic information.