Feasibility of Cost of Crime Estimations in Eastern Europe - The Case of Poland

• NCJ Number: 229480
• Journal: European Journal on Criminal Policy and Research Volume: 15 Issue: 4 Dated: December 2009 Pages: 327-342
• Author(s): Jacek Czabanski
• Date Published: December 2009
• Length: 16 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: Netherlands
• Note: Special issue on the Costs of Crime, for additional information see NCJ-229479 and NCJ-229481-484.

Annotation

This paper explores the feasibility of building a model on estimating costs of crime in Eastern Europe using crime and other data for Poland.

Abstract

Estimates of cost of crime have gradually been introduced into the public debate on crime policy. Estimates differ in their scope and methodologies and this impedes international comparisons. This article follows the model of estimating costs of crime developed under the 6th Framework Programme and provides the comparable results of costs of crime in Poland. The total costs of crime have been estimated at 5.1 percent of GDP. In particular, the victimisation costs of violent crimes have been estimated at 1.94 percent of GDP and the costs of property crimes against individuals at 0.5 percent of GDP. The results are in line with estimates for other countries and provide the relevant measure for any cost-benefit analysis of a crime policy. Tables and references (Published Abstract)