How coronavirus could change crime in Britain

While some criminals will turn away from their former lives after lockdown, others may be drawn into crime by the oncoming recession. Lizzie Dearden reports

(AFP/Getty)

Coronavirus could change crime in Britain for months or even years as the pandemic’s consequences influence current and future criminals.

The lockdown has already forced offenders – particularly drug dealers, thieves and fraudsters – to attempt new ways of working and overall crime has fallen dramatically by virtue of people staying at home.

Police are now battling to stop figures rocketing back to pre-coronavirus levels when the restrictions lift.