Articles tagged with Crime
Researchers have developed a low-cost fake drug detector that uses an infrared sensor to track pill dissolution rates. The device can identify legitimate medications from counterfeit ones with high accuracy, making it a valuable tool in the fight against global health threats.
A recent UK survey conducted by Anglia Ruskin University found that approximately 2% of adults reported being victims of drink spiking in the previous 12 months, equating to nearly one million people. Women were more likely to experience spiking, and incidents are often linked to sexual assault, physical assault, theft, or 'pranks'.
A new VR app is being developed to tackle violence against women and girls, using virtual reality to raise awareness and educate people about harassment. The app places users in realistic scenarios commonly experienced by women, aiming to educate people about attitudes and behaviours towards women and girls.
A new report by Anglia Ruskin University and the University of York identifies key weaknesses in the UK's food system and recommends interventions to prevent disruptions from escalating into a crisis. The study suggests increasing energy security, diversifying food value chains, and promoting varied diets to reduce risks.
A new digital and legally binding fingerprint developed at the University of Copenhagen makes products impossible to counterfeit. Royal Copenhagen is among the first brands in the world to use this solution, resulting in immediate transparency across their distribution chain.
A risk evaluation tool aimed at protecting women from domestic violence has been found to be an effective predictor of deadly domestic abuse. However, the researchers emphasize that no scheme can perfectly predict the future and that continued improvement is necessary to safeguard victims.
A new study by Rice University researchers links legal sports betting to a measurable rise in violent and impulsive crime on game days. Crime levels surge when betting outcomes defy expectations, such as underdog wins, especially during games with close or tied scores that extend into overtime
A large-scale study found that individuals with ADHD are at higher risk of being convicted of crimes compared to those without ADHD. Relatives of individuals with ADHD also show increased risk, even if they themselves do not have ADHD. Early identification and treatment of ADHD in high-risk families may help mitigate these risks.
A study suggests that one in two individuals arrested and detained in London may have undiagnosed attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), while one in 20 may have undiagnosed autism. Screening for neurodivergence could enable better support for vulnerable individuals.
A new study analyzing over 5,000 homicide victim autopsies in Maryland found that a small but significant number of deaths could have been prevented with Stop the Bleed training. The program teaches bystanders how to apply pressure, pack wounds, and use tourniquets to control bleeding.
A new study by the Complexity Science Hub reveals that crypto hacks can have a significant impact on market prices, with investors bearing the brunt of the losses. The study found that in 12 cases, affected tokens experienced subsequent price crashes, resulting in $1.3 billion indirect losses.
The Trainer Identification Project is a pioneering initiative that explores new forensic techniques to identify criminals by their shoes. Using images of trainers under various light conditions, the team aims to develop fast and reliable tools for operational policing.
A new study reveals the deep connection between wildlife trafficking and other serious crimes, including arms dealing and human smuggling. By mapping these intersections, researchers can focus on key players driving global networks, boosting anti-trafficking interventions.
A new study by Dr. Rasha Kassem and Professor Umut Turksen found that police officers perceive fraud as low-harm and low-priority, leading to weakened investigations and limited victim support. The researchers advocated for targeted training, investment in cyber and financial forensics, and cultural change within police organisations.
A new study found that sniffer dogs' performance in real-world scenarios is highly variable and dependent on factors like region, day, and explosive type. The research suggests that limited access to explosive training materials is a primary challenge for teams, highlighting the need for wider access to improve detection performance
The analysis explores how reduced fentanyl production costs affect the structure and conduct of the illegal opioid supply industry. It also assesses potential consequences for drug law enforcement organizations, finding modest declines in expenditures and income-generating crime.
A study of 40 women with PTSD following recent sexual assault trauma found a marked reduction in brain synchronization between the amygdala and prefrontal cortex. This disruption may be a biological signature of the disorder rather than a state-dependent marker, potentially leading to personalized treatment response.
A new study reveals that true crime media can be both a help and a hindrance to co-victims, with many experiencing a loss of privacy and trauma due to sensationalized coverage. The research highlights the need for ethical production practices and standards to protect co-victims from harm.
A new study found that financial advisors' childhood environment significantly predicts their core code of ethics, influencing their professional behavior. The research suggests that cultural norms from their hometown play a significant role in shaping their ethical foundations. This finding highlights the importance of considering the...
The STIM tool assesses online adverts for risks of human trafficking, helping law enforcement and charities identify potential victims. The tool has already led to multiple arrests and safeguarded dozens of vulnerable people.
A Norwegian researcher has identified key factors contributing to recidivism after imprisonment, including mental health, relationships, motivation, and support systems. The study found that 'soft' factors are equally important as 'hard' variables in predicting reoffending risk.
A new study from the University of Georgia found that young adults under 34 are more likely to engage in insurance fraud, with only 5% of those 55 and older signaling acceptance. The researchers attribute this to younger generations' carefree attitudes and lack of understanding about what constitutes fraudulent behavior.
Two former Department of Justice scientists argue for transformative crime prevention research prioritizing social justice alongside public safety. They emphasize the need for research incorporating community perspectives and collaborative approaches to prevent harm and promote justice.
A study published in Contemporary Economic Policy found that delaying the disbursement of food assistance payments can reduce robbery incidents by 0.03 per 100,000 population. The researchers estimate a potential crime reduction benefit of $2.7 million annually in the United States.
Researchers found that mobile users were less likely to click on phishing links compared to PC users, especially for lower-risk URLs. The study suggests that device use settings affect users' risk assessment abilities, leading to more avoidant behavior on mobile devices.
A new study suggests that both defendants and complainants are equally susceptible to memory errors in sexual assault cases. The research found strong misinformation effects, with individuals in both roles equally likely to misremember details of the events leading up to the sexual encounter.
A study of 175 female perpetrators of lethal violence in Sweden found that they usually act under high arousal due to reactive motives. Women with severe mental disorders had a slightly longer time thinking about acting violently, but no lengthy preparations were made.
A new study has provided insights into how blood stains cotton fabrics, allowing investigators to gather additional information from forensic evidence. The researchers found that the number and spread of 'fingers' in the bloodstain correlate to the velocity of the blood spatter, with faster-moving blood leaving more prominent tendrils.
The University of South Florida's Trafficking in Persons Lab estimates that more than 700,000 Floridians were trafficked last year. The lab's annual report highlights coordinated prevention, prosecution, and policy measures to combat human trafficking, with prosecutions rising and penalties exceeding the national average.
Researchers from the University of Surrey investigate how senior citizens are targeted by cybercriminals due to societal biases, including ageism and stereotypes that portray them as frail and gullible. The study highlights the need for educational initiatives and support systems to empower older adults to protect themselves online.
A recent study by Carnegie Mellon University found that illegally manufactured fentanyl primarily enters the US via counties along the Canadian border. The analysis revealed these counties accounted for over 40% of large fentanyl seizures in 2023-2024, despite comprising only 3.1% of the national population. This finding undermines eff...
A study explores how Arab men interpret and internalize their experiences of living in violent environments. Key findings reveal four central themes: the association of crime with power, emotional struggles, concerns for the future, and a desire for transformation. The research highlights an urgent need for culturally tailored therapeu...
Law enforcement use subjective tactics to detect marijuana impairment, but these methods have limited scientific basis. Scientists must get involved to develop reliable tools, and funding from legal marijuana sales could support research. A new perspective calls for a more evidence-based approach to road safety.
A recent study has discovered a connection between brain damage and an increased likelihood of committing crimes. The research, led by Harvard Medical School and the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, found that damage to the right uncinate fasciculus was linked to criminal behavior.
A UK study analyzed over 30,000 crimes and found that the overall risk of crime increases after dark, but only for specific types such as burglary, robbery, and criminal damage. The risk varies by neighborhood, suggesting that darkness itself may be a contributing factor to crime.
Investigative journalism plays a crucial role in safeguarding democracy and ensuring accountability. Whistleblowing contributes to justice and transparency. The CRN41 network explores these issues and advocates for measures to protect civic courage and freedom of expression.
A study by Universidad Miguel Hernandez de Elche found that sexual victimization occurs in approximately 20% of Spanish gamers, while hate-motivated incidents affect 20-30% of players. The research highlights the need for game developers to implement preventive measures and user protection tools.
A Cambridge criminologist has uncovered evidence suggesting a vengeful noblewoman, Ela Fitzpayne, had a priest, John Forde, assassinated in 1337. The records, published for the first time, reveal a complex web of relationships and motives that may have led to the murder.
A new study by University of Cincinnati criminologist Francis Cullen found that 40% of Americans agree the prison system is racist and that public punitiveness has declined. The study suggests a shift in 'penal sensibility' as Americans become less favorable towards mass incarceration.
Researchers analyzed 12 videos of bystanders' attempts to intervene during the 2020 George Floyd killing. They found that bystanders made over 205 direct verbal interventions, with most focused on checking George Floyd's well-being. However, police mostly ignored or rejected these interventions, leading to his tragic death.
A new report reveals that over half of UK child sexual abuse survivors have not received support, highlighting a critical gap in local systems. The survey also found that many victims were first subjected to abuse at a young age and struggled with disclosure and healing.
Researchers used virtual reality to test how incarcerated burglars evaluated a neighborhood with houses differing in features. The study found that offenders adjusted their perceptions of risk and reward based on the environment. Environmental features like street lighting and housing design influenced the men's likelihood of breaking in.
A novel research project found that greener areas have fewer fatal police shootings, particularly in socially and economically disadvantaged communities. The study suggests that higher levels of greenness can reduce violence through mechanisms such as reduced crime, improved mental health, and increased civic engagement.
The Annual Antisemitism Worldwide Report found that despite a decline in the antisemitic wave after the war, levels remained significantly higher than before. Countries such as Australia, Italy, and Canada reported record-high numbers of incidents, with notable increases in physical assaults in France.
Researchers have developed a new method to detect gunshot residue at crime scenes, offering exciting opportunities for crime scene investigations. The innovative light-emitting lead analysis method is faster, more sensitive, and easier to use than current alternatives.
A new analysis of job applicant data from a large employer found that Ban-the-Box policies had little impact on employment rates for individuals with criminal records. Despite initial hopes that these policies would improve job prospects, the study suggests that any benefits may be reversed during subsequent candidate assessment.
A new report by Michigan State University and Michigan Public Health Institute found that shootings in Lansing fell after the implementation of a prevention program, with some variations between years and communities. The Advance Peace Lansing program employs fellows to engage with individuals affected by gun violence.
Police reports of hate crimes in 42 major US cities declined 2.7% in 2024, with anti-Jewish and anti-Muslim hate crimes rising 12% and 18%, respectively. Anti-Jewish hate crimes reached record levels in several cities, while anti-Asian hate crimes fell more than 14%. The upward trend is attributed to the timing of the Israel-Gaza war.
Researchers found that humanizing police officers through recruiting materials can increase potential candidates' interest in policing as a career. Exposure to humanizing videos led to increased shared identity with police officers, promoting greater interest in a policing career.
A new edition of 'Criminal Law in Canada: Cases, Questions, and the Code' has been released, co-authored by Associate Professor David MacAlister. The book reflects recent case law and legislation, featuring expanded discussion on key topics such as sentencing and bail reform.
A new study by J.Z. Bennett finds that long sentences for juveniles sever ties made while incarcerated and hinder progress upon release. The research highlights the importance of prison friendships, social connections, and emotional support in facilitating successful reintegration.
A new study reveals that nearly 7% of US adults have been present at the scene of a mass shooting, while over 2% have been injured during one. Younger generations are significantly more likely to have been exposed than their parents or grandparents were.
A new study from Texas A&M University's Mosbacher Institute found that reducing violent crime in El Salvador significantly decreased Central American emigration to the US. Homicide rates dropped by 87% after President Nayib Bukele implemented a crackdown, resulting in a 45-67% reduction in border apprehensions.
The Association for Computing Machinery's Technology Policy Council issues brief calls on policymakers and tech companies to address tech abuse in intimate partner violence, human trafficking, and child exploitation. The report highlights disturbing statistics and recommends expanding laws and regulations to protect users.
A new AI-powered tool helps predict traumatic brain injury outcomes based on documented assault scenarios, providing an evidence-based approach to improve investigation accuracy. The model achieved remarkable prediction accuracy for TBI-related injuries, integrating mechanical biophysical data with forensic details.
A study published in the journal Memory found that intoxicated people have difficulty accurately recalling internal facial features, while still remembering external details like hair style. This suggests that alcohol narrows attention to more noticeable external features, impairing memory for critical internal features.
A three-year effort in nine California counties resulted in 227 individuals receiving new sentences, with 174 offenders released by September 2024. Researchers recommend increasing funding, training for prosecutors and public defenders, and standardization of review factors to strengthen the program.
A recent study found that individuals charged with sexual offenses against adults are at high risk of committing crimes against children, with up to 40% reporting interest in violent acts against minors. The study also identified effective prevention methods and a model of peer support for parents of child victims.
A new study finds Americans are willing to pay nearly $100 billion for policies that reduce gun violence by 20%. The research, conducted by Duke University and the University of Chicago, shows widespread support from all demographics for stronger intervention. With a national WTP estimate of $97.6 billion, Americans are willing to inve...
A new study by Northeastern University's Crime Prevention Lab found that CCTV cameras in Newark, NJ, were associated with reduced auto thefts three to four years after installation. The study highlights the importance of longer-term evaluations to understand the persistence and potential increase of crime prevention effects.