A wager can encourage crime! (4)

I believe the answer is:

abet

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'encourage crime' is the definition.
'abet' can be an answer for 'encourage' (I've seen this in another clue). I'm unsure of the 'crime' bit.

'a wager' is the wordplay.
'wager' becomes 'bet' (synonyms).
'a'+'bet'='ABET'

'can' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for abet that I've seen before include "Crookedly endorse" , "Aid as in committing crime" , "Incite, help" , "Help in wrongdoing" , "Beat (anag.)" .)

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