3.1 Watching the crime
Watch the following video.
How did the crime unfold? Did it match your predictions about what took place?
Download this video clip.Video player: ou_futurelearn_psychology_vid_1027.mp4
Transcript
NARRATOR
This is what really happened - as the security guard went to the back of the van to get the money, an armed robber jumps out and threatens the security van driver.
ROBBER
...SHOW ME YOUR HANDS! SHOW ME YOUR HANDS! Don't move...
NARRATOR
While the second robber demands the box,
ROBBER
GIVE ME THE BOX!
NARRATOR
The third robber keeps a look out. The security guard with the cash box knocks the gun from the robber's hand and in the scuffle, removes his balaclava. The robber panics and looks directly at the witnesses. The first robber floors the security guard with the money, the third robber spots Liz - our actress - phoning for help and grabs her. He fires a shot.
ROBBER
Don't look at me now! COME ON!
NARRATOR
At the same time the other two robbers cut the chain to the cash box. A silver Audi reverses towards the robbers and the driver jumps out. The robber who has hold of Liz, pushes her into the car; the others get in, the car speeds off. The action lasted just over a minute.
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The crime was staged as part of a collaboration between The Open University and the BBC and filmed using hidden cameras. The perpetrators, security guards and Liz were all played by actors. The witnesses – you will see that there are more than just two – were members of the public who volunteered to participate.
Next, you will find out how well the Greater Manchester Police managed to work out what happened.