Where Is All the Hard-Time Crime?

Despite the recession, the Associated Press reports, U.S. crime rates continue to fall in 2009 compared to last year. Sociologists and crime experts are citing the economic stimulus, people staying home from lack of work, and even an aging population as possible causes of the drop. (Note: anyone who read Freakonomics knows that the relationship between the economy and crime, particularly violent crime, is very weak.) In England, meanwhile, a priest encourages people to steal — from big-name stores and only if they really need it. (HT: Daniel Lippman) [%comments]