NCJ Number
143268
Date Published
1993
Length
20 pages
Annotation
Evaluating the quantitative evolution of crime in Greece in recent years is complex and involved, although the total number of criminal cases reported to the police and other prosecution authorities has exhibited only a slight upward trend.
Abstract
In 1992, 379,652 offenses were reported, compared to 295,353 in 1980, 352,488 in 1984, 311,179 in 1988, 287,177 in 1989, 330,803 in 1990, and 358,998 in 1991. Serious felony crimes increased more rapidly than misdemeanor crimes. The number of reported felonies rose from 1,042 cases in 1980 to 1,505 in 1984, 4,455 in 1988, 4,624 in 1989, 4,692 in 1990, 6,551 in 1991, and 6,510 in 1992. There was also a dramatic increase in drug-related offenses, from 400 in 1980 to 2,024 in 1992. A clear increase was observed in the number of property crimes, but the level of violent crimes did not substantially rise. There was a marked increase in the number of crimes committed by young offenders between 13 and 29 years of age, as well as an increase in the number of aliens who committed crimes. Data are provided on the educational level of offenders, organized crime, economic crime, and ethnic or religious violence. The nature of criminality in Greece, crime prevention measures, and the country's criminal justice system are discussed.