KTRV Fox 12 Crime And A Faltering Economy
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Boise, Idaho -- While the economy continues to falter, it seems more people have adopted the mantra desperate times call for desperate measures.
It may come as no surprise that hard times and an increase in crime go hand in hand, but what you may not know is, although people are struggling more than ever because of a failing economy, we may be faring better than we did in the 1970s and 80s.
"During the 70s, when crime ticked up a lot, that was sort of the first big wave of outsourcing and jobs going oversees and people losing their jobs, that was shock to them," said 17-year sociology Professor Steven Patrick.
We've learned a lot since then. In fact, according to Patrick, hard times come as less of a shock now, a factor that could lessen the sting of crime in the Treasure Valley.
"Today I think we're more prepared for it as a people and, while we don't like it, we sort of almost expect it," said Patrick.
And while local law enforcement are hesitant to say illegal activity is on the rise, it's hard to ignore the recent string of property crimes, something Patrick says is indicative of desperation. Property crimes tend be quick and easy for fast cash. In the last week alone, police have investigated two armed robberies. The first, on Sunday at a Papa Johns, and the next, the following day at an EZ Money Payday Loans. Both suspects demanded money at gunpoint.
"While the relationship between crime and the economy is very complicated, the general trend is that as the economy goes down, crime tends to tic up a little bit," said Patrick.
He also expects drug use and drug related crime to increase within the next few years.
"As people lose jobs, lose homes, they lose hope and drugs are a an unfortunate easy solution, not an easy solution, but an easy fix for feeling better," said Patrick.
While our prison systems are more overcrowded than ever, don't be surprised to see more parolees on the street.
"As the state struggles for more money and budgets get out, one of the ways to lower cost is to let more people out," said Patrick.
Just a few facts on the prison systems -- 2.3 million U.S. adults were incarcerated at the beginning of 2008, the highest of any other country. We spent around $50 billion on corrections last year alone in the United States.
