Topic 7 - patterns of crime linked to age

Question 1

Introduction?

Answer 1

The peak age for offending is around 17, with young men receiving most convictions. While the CJS aims to avoid convicting young people to prevent further criminal behavior, convictions are still focused on them. For every 1,000 people, 1 child aged 11 will be convicted, rising to 8 per 1,000 at age 14. Offending remains high until age 30, then drops sharply after 60. Youth crime is a major concern, as convicted young people are more likely to reoffend. Older individuals fear crime more, while younger people are more likely to be victims.

Question 2

Official statistics, age and crime?

Answer 2

The peak age for offending is around 17, with young men receiving most convictions. While the CJS aims to avoid convicting young people to prevent further criminal behavior, convictions are still focused on them. For every 1,000 people, 1 child aged 11 will be convicted, rising to 8 per 1,000 at age 14. Offending remains high until age 30, then drops sharply after 60. Youth crime is a major concern, as convicted young people are more likely to reoffend. Older individuals fear crime more, while younger people are more likely to be victims

Question 3

Youth offending?

Answer 3

ONS data for 2011-2012 shows that 10–17-year-olds made up 13% of all arrests, despite being only 10% of the population, indicating over-representation in criminal justice data. To reduce repeat offending, alternatives to arrest are used, such as Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (AsBOs), reprimands, on-the-spot fines, and restorative justice through triage schemes.

Youth sentencing has declined, with 1,544 young offenders in 2012/2013 and fewer repeat offenses. Owen and Cooper’s 2013 report found that most first offenses were acquisitive (theft, robbery), with 21% violent and 10% serious. Those committing robbery, car theft, or burglary as a first offense were more likely to reoffend.

Question 4

Adult offending?

Answer 4

Not all offenses go to court, especially less serious or first-time offenses. Of those that do:

67% result in fines
12% in community sentences
8% in immediate prison sentences
4% in suspended sentences
Only 12% of adults sentenced to prison serve over 3 years, and 57% serve short sentences under 6 months. Many adult offenders are repeat offenders or have substance abuse issues. Reoffending rates vary by region: Wales has a 27% rate, Cardiff 31%, and London 26%.

Question 5

Age and Victimisation?

Answer 5

The CSEW 2012/2013 found that younger people are more likely to be victims of crime than older people. 8.5% of those aged 16-24 reported violent crime victimization, with young men being the most victimized group. Poorer people are more likely to be victims of burglary, while young people often experience snatch or stealth theft outside the home.