More Sinned Against Than Sinning? Perceptions about European Migrants and Crime

• NCJ Number: 243522
• Journal: Criminology & Criminal Justice Volume: 13 Issue: 3 Dated: July 2013 Pages: 262-278
• Author(s): Sally-Ann Baker; Iolo Madoc-Jones; Odette Parry; Emily Warren; Kirsty Perry; Karen D. Roscoe; Richard Mottershead
• Date Published: July 2013
• Length: 17 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study explored understandings about the relationship between European migrants and crime at the local level.

Abstract

The article draws on perceptions of those working in professional capacities with European migrants in one area of the UK, to explore understandings about the relationship between European migrants and crime at the local level. The qualitative study informing the article involved semi-structured interviews with representatives from the criminal justice system (CJS) and community representatives. A key finding of the study was that both CJS and community representative respondent accounts were largely congruent. European migrants were more likely, in respondent accounts, to be victims, rather than perpetrators, of crime. Much of the predominantly 'low-level' crime associated with European migrant offending was reported to be largely a function of cultural difference and based on misunderstanding of UK law and CJS processes. The article concludes with some implications for the enculturalization and education of new migrants and the fostering of better understanding between European migrants and CJS agents and processes. Abstract published by arrangement with Sage.