In James Patterson's "Cat & Mouse," the quote "Society prepares the crime; the criminal only commits it" highlights how societal factors, environment, and circumstances often set the stage for criminal acts. The criminal's actions are influenced by these external pressures, suggesting that crime is not solely the result of individual choice but also of systemic issues.

This perspective emphasizes that societal neglect or malfunctioning systems can foster environments where crime becomes almost inevitable. While individuals are responsible for their actions, the quote points to the importance of addressing societal problems to prevent crimes before they happen.