Attitudes to sentencing:
Public opinion vs legislation

Survey results show that most believe the courts are too lenient. But when presented with specific cases, a sizeable minority opted for more lenient sentences than provided for by new minimum sentencing legislation.

Drugs, alcohol and crime:
A survey of arrestees

A recent survey shows high levels of drug use among arrestees and a strong correlation between drugs and certain crimes. Patterns vary between areas and among users of different race, age and gender groups.

Vulnerable to violence:
The case of young women

Women between the ages of 12 and 25 are most vulnerable to violence. Although new legislation is being drafted on the issue, these solutions are unlikely to reach most survivors.

Fair-play in business transactions:
The new Insider Trading Act

New legislation provides for far more severe penalties than before: maximum fines increase from R500 000 to R2 million. A prison term of up to 10 years can also be imposed.

Public perception about firearms:
A survey of three communities

Surveys show overwhelming support for better firearm controls in high crime areas. Although 85% agreed that guns cause more violence than they prevent, many were willing to own a firearm.

Community crime prevention:
How to make it work

The National Crime Prevention Strategy is releasing a manual on how local governments can prevent crime in their areas. Following a systematic approach, crime can be reduced.