Professor Examines US Policing and Punishment Trends
David Garland discusses factors driving high rates of incarceration and homicide in the United States.
Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Law Enforcement
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Professor David Garland recently presented research at Middlesex University on the distinct American regimes of policing and punishment. His analysis compared US violence and imprisonment rates against those in the UK.
Why it matters
The lecture highlighted how historical policy decisions regarding social welfare, gun access, and urban resources contribute to current levels of domestic violence and aggressive policing.
The US reports 6 homicides per 100,000 people annually, contrasted with fewer than 1 in the UK. Furthermore, the US holds 650 prisoners per 100,000 people, significantly higher than the UK rate of 150.
The players
David Garland
He is a professor and the author of the book Law and Order Leviathan: America's Extraordinary Regime of Policing and Punishment.
The details
Professor Garland, author of 'Law and Order Leviathan,' argues that the US prioritizing free market forces over social welfare has led to systemic failures in inner cities since the 1960s. He also points to the circulation of 400 million guns among a population of 330 million as a driver for both civilian fear and aggressive police behavior.
Timeline
The lecture took place during the week of October 16, 2026.
The lack of inner-city resources has been an ongoing issue since the 1960s.
Legal Context
This analysis updates our understanding of the 1960s era of urban disinvestment as a primary catalyst for modern American crime rates. It highlights how these foundational economic shifts continue to dictate contemporary outcomes in policing and incarceration.
Understanding these systemic factors provides clarity on why American communities face higher levels of policing and incarceration compared to other nations. It highlights the influence of gun circulation and social policy on the safety and daily experience of residents.
The takeaway
The research suggests that US crime and incarceration levels are deeply tied to specific policy choices regarding social support and weapon availability. Addressing these long-standing issues requires looking beyond immediate policing to the underlying economic structure of the nation.
Further reading
For broader trends in global criminal justice, see our report on Law Enforcement.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Scottish Legal News.
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