Crime index
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Crime indexes are generated to analyze crime statistics. The most common source of such statistics are records reported to the police. Critics do not feel that crime indexes are particularly useful as they only list reported crimes. This makes it difficult to know whether a "10% increase" has any real meaning. An alternative source of data is the victimization survey, usually conducted via annual interviews with households, whose occupants are asked whether they have been the victim of crime. Critics note that surveys are generally unreliable, especially when they involve discussions of criminal activity.
Crime Indexes
- National Crime Victimization Survey (NCVS - BJS)
- National Incident Based Reporting System (FBI)
- Uniform Crime Reports (FBI)
Related Legislation
- Hate Crime Statistics Act (1990)