There are times that the use of random numbers can be helpful but, at the same time, "cold calls" (as in sales) can be very challenging to accomplish. When you add in the facet of a phone interview and a topic regarding crime and victimization the challenges magnify significantly.
What do you think makes people willing to take the time to answer questions from a stranger who randomly calls them?
How many times have wondered how the "random" calls were taken place and the polls conducted?
Would the results of the survey be different if everyone called answered? Why?