Complex events: the “pickpocket event” on the Rome Metro

Paul Vincent’s Complex Event

The best examples are always from real life.  Its hard to make up events like this…. and Complex Events they are!

Paul describes the pattern of events that make up this “complex event”.  Actually it’s a good example of theft teamwork that happens everywhere, …. not just in the Eternal City.

The puzzle I would pose to readers is to parameterize this example, with appropriate event combinators, and, or, followed by, independent, … and timing, so that it describes a fairly general scenario for a crowded pickpocket scam.

And for God’s Sake …. don’t keep your wallet in your backpack!! Always in an inside pocket … and even then … its not safe.  So … distribute your money and cards around your person when you travel. And don’t do what Paul did … run after the b*gg*rs.  Its only your money at that point, not your life! Usually these guys have knives and they are not exactly rational! But it is a good example of a complex event.

Oh yes …. and worry about your identity on the Internet while you’re at it … especially if you’re as trusting as Paul! Paul’s Lesson