NCJ Number
101281
Date Published
1986
Length
13 pages
Annotation
This chapter applies the concept of 'organized crime' as used in Western societies to crime problems in Poland, identifying the prevalence and characteristics of such crime.
Abstract
As applied in this study, organized crime refers to the activities of a criminal group with a discernible formal structure and the hierarchical coordination of those involved in the planning and executing of illegal acts. Poland has no criminal syndicates which dominate the supply and sale of a whole category of illicit goods such as drugs and pornography. Organizations that misappropriate state property and maintain a black market in scarce goods constitute a principal crime problem in Poland. Records of prosecutions of such crimes indicate that persons who manage public enterprises and are responsible for the distribution of raw materials often organize such criminal activities. Although only a fraction of these offenses are reported, they are estimated to be frequent. Even though alcohol is not prohibited in Poland, high prices have led to the illegal production and sale of alcohol. Organized crime in Poland could be significantly reduced through economic policy revisions that include the encouragement of free investment and trade and the relaxation of excessive state control over all segments of economic production, trade, and consumption. This would ensure a steady supply of reasonably priced consumer goods in demand. 49 references.