From Crime Rates to Crime Harm: Understanding the Role of Social Development in Mexico City
Carlos Vilalta; Oscar Siordia; Pablo Lopez-Ramirez; Gustavo Fondevila
Abstract
This study investigates the spatial and temporal dynamics of crime and social development in Mexico City between 2019 and 2023. By utilizing innovative metrics—including crime rate (CR), crime harm per resident (CHIP), and crime harm per victim (CHIV)—alongside the Social Development Index (SDI), the study uncovers complex spatial relationships between crime and social conditions. The analysis reveals significant variability in crime patterns, highlighting the pivotal role of social development in mitigating both crime and its associated harm. The insights generated are crucial for policymakers seeking to implement targeted and impactful strategies for crime prevention and social improvement.
Key Words:
crime harm, social development, spatial analysis, crime prevention
Date:
August, 2024
CR: Crime Rate or the frequency of crime per neighborhood resident
Interpretation: A CR of 0.032 means means that, on average, there are 0.032 crimes per resident.
CHIP: Crime Harm Index per resident population in each neighborhood (in month units according to minimum sentencing guidelines in the Penal Code)
Interpretation: A CHIP of 0.70 means means that, on average, the total harm caused by crimes in that neighborhood equates to 0.70 months of sentencing per resident.
CHIV: Crime Harm Index per victim in each neighborhood (in month units according to minimum sentencing guidelines in the Penal Code)
Interpretation: A CHIV of 25 indicates that each victim of crime in that neighborhood, on average, experiences crime harm that results in a sentence of 25 months.
CHI: Crime Harm Index
The CHI is calculated by summing up the harm scores of all crimes reported in each neighborhood. Each crime is assigned a harm score based on the minimum sentence length in months prescribed for that crime under the current penal code.
See formulas below:
