Statistics show that crime rates have not dropped since the introduction of probation. In fact, the total number of violent or property crimes almost doubles every nine years or so. This was until around the 2000s. At the end of the 1990s, the
number of violent crimes was around four thousand. Entering the early 2000s, rates dropped just below four thousand and slowly decreased from there. Leading to last year where the crime index in Georgia was 347,366.
Many would argue that probation is a risking thing and that is true. There is always the possibility that you could come across a repeat offender. Probation does have disadvantage to its advantages, however, it is a major reason why the crime rate has dropped over the last decade. While violent crimes have dropped at a slower rate, there is no arguing that it is largely because of probation. In comparison, petty crimes have actually risen to some of its all-time highs. The number of thefts, burglaries, and robberies have increased rather quickly. This is another downfall of probation. Offenders see that they can commit a smaller crime and their punishment will only stretch as far as probation.
Based on facts alone, probation does seem to be causing a decline in crime rates since its introduction. What started off as a solution to overcrowding in prisons has become the most innovative field in criminal justice today. While many people believe that letting these offenders back on the streets is dangerous, most of the time it is very helpful in the rehabilitation of an inmate. Of course, there are many advantages and disadvantages to probation but it is undoubtedly doing a great amount of good.