Legal and Procedural Changes
Consequences of unreported crime can include delayed or prevented legal changes. When offenses go unreported, there may be less impetus for legislative action to address societal issues.
Example: Homosexuality was illegal in the UK for many years before legal changes were made. Similarly, smoking laws have evolved over time, such as the 2007 ban on smoking in enclosed public spaces and the 2015 prohibition of smoking in vehicles with minors.
Procedural change criminology has led to new methods of crime reporting. Traditional approaches like visiting a police station or calling emergency services have been supplemented with anonymous reporting options.
Highlight: Websites like Crime Stoppers allow individuals to report crimes anonymously, addressing concerns about becoming victims of retaliation.
These procedural changes aim to encourage reporting of offenses such as hate crimes, terrorism, fraud, and anti-social behavior. The availability of specialized reporting channels and apps has made it easier for citizens to engage with law enforcement and report crimes.
In conclusion, the consequences of unrecorded and historic crimes in criminology are complex and multifaceted. While some consequences, like procedural improvements in reporting, can be positive, many effects of unreported crime are detrimental to society. Understanding these consequences is crucial for developing effective strategies to combat crime and ensure justice for all members of society.
