Reduction of Crime

Aims of Reduction

• This is often achieved through deterrence; there are two types

• 1) Individual aims to ensure that the offender does not reoffend, through fear of future punishment

• 2) General aims at preventing other potential offenders from committing crimes.

General deterrence

• The idea behind this is that people will be put off if they see others received harsh sentences.

• Examples: Lengthy prison sentences, heavy fines

• But this relies on publicity - it will only work if potential offenders know what they can expect

• Less effective with drug related or smuggling of foreign nationals as the rewards often outweighs the offence

Individual deterrence

• By imposing a severe penalty, the theory is that the offender will think twice in the future of fear.

• Examples: Prison sentences, heavy fines, suspended sentence, naming of child sex offenders

• Less effective as prison seemingly does not deter - about 45% of prisoners reoffend within the first year of release

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