Criminal Statistics for 1928 The criminal statistics for England and
Wales for 1928 disclose some alarming facts, as well as some reassuring. The increase of indictable offences-88 per cent. since 1910-1914—is the more disquieting since it is principally amongst the young. The Report rightly urges that greater use should be made of the various reformatory systems, combined with longer sentences to allow their educative value to be felt. On the other hand, the decline in drunkenness among women has been accompanied by a marked decrease in crime, especially crimes of cruelty. The motor car has apparently made crime easier, partly by causing houses to be left empty, and partly by affording a convenient means of transport to the criminal. Burg- lary has increased, especially in the Home Counties, and generally in the country rather than in the towns. The situation calls for further inquiry.
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