Learning by Criming: Theoretical Analysis and Empirical Evidence

This paper analyzes the effect of accumulated criminal experience on the conduct of nonviolent crimes. The study uses data on crime and other socioeconomic variables of 2 (excluding Hawaii, Alaska, and the District of Columbia) 1970 to 1980. The accumulated experience is measured by applying a weighted Koyck index. The results indicate that past criminal experience affects the current level of nonviolent crime. The study also shows that by, introducing to the nonviolent crime model the variable of learning by doing along with the relevant socioeconomic characteristics, the deterring effect of policing is revealed.