The Diminution of Crime Perhaps the most striking feature of
the crime statistics for 1932 (published this week) is the continued fall in the convictions for drunkenness. In the five-year period 1925-29 they averaged 68,491 a year ; in the years 1930, 1931 and 1932 they were 58,609, 46,846 and 33,858 respectively. Thus the 1932 figure was actually less than half the average of the 1925-29 quinquennium ; and that for no freak reason, but as part of a drop con- tinuous as well as swift. With it, very naturally, went a drop in assaults, which in 1925-29 averaged 29,000 and in 1932 were only 19,299. Such changes mean a real ascent in social civilization. Turning to indictable offences (which cover what are called crimes in ordinary parlance), we find totals distinctly lower than they were a few years ago, and the more remarkable when the economic conditions of 1932 are allowed for. Almost exactly two-thirds of the convictions in adult courts were dealt with by way of fines, recognizances and probation orders ; but it is not satisfactory that in some 18 per cent, of the cases there were sentences of imprisonment for three months and under, since the mischief of short sentences is now universally recog- nized by experts. Young people account for a big proportion of these offences ; but that they do so is at least partly due to lessened recidivism and fewer adult offenders.
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