Our Obsession with Art Heists
A deeply ingrained interest in stolen objects and their recovery reflects our collective uncertainty over how we value art.
The Rise and Fall of “True Crime” Radio Dramas
Depictions of poor, non-white victims and informants led working-class and rural listeners to turn against the genre.
What Do Chicago Gangs Provide to Their Members?
Confronted with discrimination and violence, gangs evolve and serve members differently, even when patterned after existing groups.
Crime Waves and Moral Panics
From train robberies to organized retail theft to murder, are we really gripped by a crime wave?
Let’s Talk About (Your) Crimes
Asking yourself about what you've "gotten away with" may change how you think about "criminals."
How Crime Stories Foiled Reform in Victorian Britain
Harsh punishments were declining in the nineteenth century. Then came sensationalist news coverage of a reputed crime wave.
Ending the Myths about Domestic Homicide
There has been a spike in domestic violence amid the COVID-19 crisis, according to a recent report from the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
Shoplifting, for Fun and Profit
"Hoisting" at the professional level could bring a sense of pride, along with the relief of avoiding grueling domestic work.
The Murder Ballad Was the Original True Crime Podcast
The 1896 version of crime sensationalism also taught the victim-blaming lesson “Stay Sexy, Don’t Get Murdered.”