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Detection Rates, An International Comparison

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Abstract

Within Europe detection rates vary considerably. The differences are too large to be explained purely by the ability of the police to solve cases. In a study covering nine European countries many other factors (external, organisational and technical factors) influencing the detection rate are identified and the influence is empirically made plausible. Next, a comparison is made between the punishment rate and the detection rate. The fact that punishment rates are more stable is explained by the difference between a crime oriented and an offender oriented approach. Also a link is made with the discretionary powers of the police and prosecution.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Ministry of Justice, WODC, P.O. Box 20301, 2500 EH, The Hague, The Netherlands

    Paul R. Smit, Ronald F. Meijer & Peter-Paul J. Groen

Authors
  1. Paul R. Smit
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  2. Ronald F. Meijer
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  3. Peter-Paul J. Groen
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Correspondence to Paul R. Smit.

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Smit, P.R., Meijer, R.F. & Groen, PP.J. Detection Rates, An International Comparison. Eur J Crim Policy Res 10, 225–253 (2004). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10610-004-3398-8

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10610-004-3398-8

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