The D.E.N.N.I.S. System
Criminal Activities
Assault
Threatening another with imminent physical harm or displaying a weapon in a manner that puts others in reasonable fear of harm; in many jurisdictions brandishing a firearm or threatening violence is a criminal offense.
Situation:
"During the fair a carnival worker stabs a woman (she cries 'He stabbed me with a key!'), causing injury and prompting calls for a doctor; the stabbing occurs amid the gang's manipulative schemes."
Impersonation of a medical professional
Falsely claiming to be a licensed medical professional and performing or purporting to provide medical treatment or medical advice, which can constitute criminal impersonation and unlawful practice of medicine in many jurisdictions.
Situation:
"At the fair Frank poses as 'Mantis Toboggan, M.D.,' presents fake test results and tells Caylee she tested positive for HIV/AIDS in order to manipulate her emotionally."
Prescription forgery
Forging or fraudulently using a medical prescription (or prescription pad) to obtain medication or to misrepresent medical treatment.
Situation:
"Dennis claims he 'filled a prescription' for a supposed grandmother using a prescriber named 'Dr. Toboggan;' other characters check and find no legitimate Dr. Toboggan in Philadelphia, indicating the prescription claim/pad was fabricated."
Trespass
Unlawful entry into a building (school) with the intent to commit an offense inside (unauthorized entry / burglary or trespass depending on jurisdiction).
Situation:
"Charlie admits he 'broke into her place,' entered the woman's apartment without permission while attempting to demonstrate his independence and meddle with her plumbing."
Vandalism
Intentionally damaging, destroying, or defacing another's property; charged as criminal mischief, vandalism, or similar offenses under U.S. law.
Situation:
"Charlie ripped apart the apartment's garbage disposal/sink and shoved a bag of hair into the sink, damaging the tenant's property."