Shoplifting and Other Types of Petit Larceny in New York City

Between 2019 and 2022, petit larceny grew 53 percent at major commercial retailers (department stores, chain stores, etc.), from fewer than 35,000 to nearly 55,000 incidents annually. Thefts in other settings grew after 2019 as well. Petit larceny on neighborhood streets and sidewalks climbed 27 percent. Larcenies from private homes and residences jumped 16 percent. Continue reading Shoplifting and Other Types of Petit Larceny in New York City

Our Crime Debate Remains Tragically Shortsighted

Whether violence is increasing or not, the consistency of public opinion attracts lawmakers’ attention at all levels of government and across the political spectrum. On the right, candidates and elected officials typically advocate for more funding and broader support for police, prisons, and other forms of suppression and control. On the left, they typically argue for deeper investments in social services, housing, education, health care, drug treatment, and various therapeutic programs. Both sides claim research evidence for their position, but neither side carefully investigates the accuracy and reliability of evidence. Continue reading Our Crime Debate Remains Tragically Shortsighted