What Are the Causes of Crime in America?

The need to understand the nature and frequency of crimes committed, in order to implement beneficial laws and policies to counter them, was the catalyst for the Uniform Crime Reporting Program (UCR), developed in 1929. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) began collecting specific crime statistics recorded by law enforcement agencies in the United States, and compiling them into annual reports detailing the crimes and the people committing them.

Function

The purpose of collecting the statistics on the causes of crimes is to pinpoint areas of high criminal activity and to propose resolutions and programs to reduce the crime rate. In addition to the UCR reports, the National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS) and the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) collect criminal data on both the perpetrator and the victim. These reports are presented to Congress every year and they are the basis for approving federal funds to combat crime.

Types

The UCR tracks crime in three categories. The first is a compilation of all crimes committed against citizens, including property crimes and violent crimes. Further breakdowns are provided within those headings. In an effort to understand the cultural issues behind crime, the FBI records the sex and race of both the perpetrator and the victim. The second category of crimes listed in the UCR concerns hate crimes, and the third is a compilation of assaults and murders that target law enforcement officers. (See Additional Resources, below.)

Geography

Where you live greatly affects your chances of becoming a victim of crime. In general, large cities report more violent crimes than rural areas, and some large cities have higher crime rates than others. Because the results vary from year to year, the United States Department of Justice (USDOJ) issues annual compilation reports that separate crime statistics into national, state and local jurisdictions. (See Additional Resources, below.)

Identification

Both the arrested criminal and the victim are identified by their sex, race, citizenship statuses, age and location. However, only law enforcement agencies report the statistics of arrests, making the actual number of convictions in some areas unknown. In addition, criminal statistic reporting is voluntary and approximately 7 percent of law enforcement agencies choose not to participate.

Theories/Speculation

Since 1996, the rate of violent crimes in the United States has steadily decreased, leading some to believe that the compilation of crime statistics is a valuable tool in researching the cause of localized crime and effectively reducing it. As new trends in crime occur, Congress debates funding new programs aimed at rehabilitating offenders and providing funds for increased law enforcement in areas with the greatest need.

Resources

• View UCR crime statistics by year.
• Check the crime statistics in your state.