Crime in the Time of COVID-19

Episode Details

COVID-driven lockdowns contributed to a sharp drop in the rates of many types of crime, although the rates of some crimes, such as homicides, increased in 2020. Drawing on his original research, Professor David Abrams (University of Pennsylvania) speaks to Michael Klein about these divergent trends. David highlights the possible roles of changes in policing methods and drug markets, as well as the ways in which people were house-bound and limited their travel and interactions with others during the COVID period.

The discussion also focuses on racial discrimination in policing, strategies for police reform, and the role of economic analysis in understanding crime and the criminal justice system.