Understanding the Peak in Crime Rates in the 1990s: Criminology and Its Role

The 1990s marked a significant period in the history of crime rates in the United States, where a notable peak in criminal activities was observed. This article aims to explore the reasons behind this phenomenon, focusing on key factors like the baby boomer effect, drug trafficking, and the various theories proposed by criminologists.

The Baby Boomer Effect and Its Impact on Crime Rates

The phenomenon known as the baby boom, which refers to the post-World War II birth surge, had a substantial effect on crime statistics during the 1990s. According to criminologists such as Wolfgang, Chaiken, and Piersall, the peak age range for criminal activity typically occurs between 15 and 34 years old. This age range aligns closely with the demographic of the baby boomers, who were reaching their late teenage and early adulthood years in the mid-1970s, and subsequently began aging out of this high-crime period by the 1990s.

Drug Trafficking and Washington State

Washington State experienced a unique situation during this time, largely influenced by drug trafficking. The rise in crime in Washington was significantly attributed to the influx of drugs, particularly cocaine, brought in by illegal mules employed by drug cartels. The high prevalence of cocaine use among the state's population increased the overall dangerousness of the situation, leading to a surge in violent crimes.

Moreover, it was observed that nearly 90% of the state's most wanted fugitives were undocumented immigrants. This trend changed with Inslee's declaration of Washington as a sanctuary state, where undocumented immigrants are protected rather than prosecuted, leading to the continued committing of crimes but without facing legal consequences.

Theories Explaining the Decline in Crime Rates

While the peak in crime rates was well-documented, the subsequent decline is equally perplexing and has been the subject of extensive research and debate among criminologists. Various theories have been proposed to explain this decrease, including:

1. The Abortion Argument

One of the most controversial theories is the abortion argument. The theory suggests that the sharp decline in crime rates post-1990 could be linked to the Roe v. Wade decision, which legalized abortion in the United States. According to this theory, a significant number of unwanted pregnancies were terminated, leading to a reduction in the number of individuals who would later engage in criminal activities. However, the impact of abortion on crime rates remains a contentious issue, with strong opinions on both sides.

2. The Lead in Gasoline Theory

The lead in gasoline theory also gained traction during this period. Elevated levels of lead in the air have been linked to increased aggression and violent behavior. With the switch to unleaded gasoline in the late 1980s, lead levels significantly decreased, leading to a reduction in violent crimes, predominantly in urban areas.

3. The Video Game Theory

A less accepted theory posits that the rise in video game sales, combined with the evolution of video games becoming more engaging and affordable, may have replaced traditional sources of mischief for young men. This theory suggests that as more young men were spending their time on video games rather than engaging in criminal activities, the overall crime rate decreased.

Other Theoretical Explanations

Many other factors have also been considered, including changes in the market for crack cocaine, the 'war on drugs,' demographic shifts, tougher gun control laws, and an overall increase in the average age of the population. These factors, however, do not fully explain why other nations experienced similar decreases in crime rates without having equivalent changes in gun control or drug markets.

Conclusion

The question of why crime rates peaked and subsequently declined during the 1990s remains a hotly debated topic in criminology. While multiple theories have been proposed, none have definitively explained the phenomenon. Further research is necessary to fully understand the complex interplay of factors that led to the changes in crime rates observed during this period.