Explanation
Crime statistics provide information on the officially registered extent and structure of crime. They are typically based on reported incidents and recorded by law enforcement agencies. While they are an important tool for analyzing crime trends, they do not capture the full scope of criminal behavior. Many offenses remain unreported and are therefore missing from official statistics. In addition, crime statistics are shaped by factors such as reporting behavior, police priorities, and legal definitions.
Theoretical Reference
Crime statistics are a cornerstone of empirical criminology but must be critically interpreted. They reflect not only actual crime but also societal processes of control and labeling, as emphasized by the labeling approach. Comparative studies use crime statistics to explore differences in crime and control between societies.