Crime on the rise...

[kermit]

Unfortunately the economy is bringing out the worst in people. It is a statistical fact that crime increases during the holidays, especially thefts and robberies. Watch the parking lots and don't use any ATM in a dark lot. Try to find one inside somewhere. Robbers come in all shapes and sizes, if someone looks like they are up to no good, believe your instincts.

[indysteel]

There was actually a story on NPR this morning about whether crime gets worse during hard economic times. The short answer is that a bad economy doesn't tend to effect crime rates with a few exceptions (alcohol related offenses and domestic violence being the most notable).

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/s...oryId=97234406

Where I live, robberies, burglaries and the like are common enough that I always take the usual precautions.

[Mr. Bloom]

It's true...but I think it tends toward theft as opposed to violent crimes.

Bank robberies clearly rise...it's well documented. My guess is shop lifting does as well, but it's not documented as well.

For the record, among jailed criminals, bank robbers are considered stupid...the punishment is far more severe than what they have to gain...that is, few bank robbers get much money at all, but they will serve 20 years when caught.