What is a common characteristic of corporate crime, according to academic observations?

A defining characteristic of corporate crime is its complexity and the difficulty involved in detecting it. Corporate crimes, which may include fraud, embezzlement, and violations of regulatory laws, often occur within large organizations where the actions of individuals can be obscured by layers of management and bureaucracy. This complexity can involve sophisticated methods of operation, which further complicate law enforcement efforts to investigate and prosecute these crimes.

Additionally, the implications of corporate crime can be widespread, affecting consumers, shareholders, and the economy as a whole, making it challenging to trace back to specific individuals or actions. This contrasts sharply with the straightforward nature of many street crimes, which are typically more visible and easier for law enforcement to manage. The other options suggest simplistic or misguided ideas about corporate crime, such as limiting its occurrence to small businesses or asserting that it affects only low-income individuals, which undermines the broader implications of corporate misconduct.