Methods of Combating Crime

Early Middle Ages (c.500-1066)

Local enforcement and collective responsibility were important methods to control crime. Groups known as tithings were responsible for each other’s behaviour.
Trial by ordeal was used where the accused would be subjected to a painful task. The belief was divine intervention would determine guilt or innocence.
Physical punishments such as flogging or mutilation were common, acting as deterrents for potential criminals.
Wergilds or ‘man payments’ were used to settle disputes through compensation rather than resorting to violence.

Late Middle Ages (1066-1500)

The Normans introduced the murdrum fine to deter the secretive killing of Normans.
Gallows and public executions became more common, serving as a warning to potential wrongdoers.
Coroners were instituted, primarily to safeguard the financial interests of the Crown.
The Justices of the Peace (JP) system was implemented, signalling the start of a more unified legal system in England.
Forest laws were particularly harsh to deter poaching of deer, viewed as royal property.

Early Modern Period (1500-1700)

A network of informants was used to detect and combat religious nonconformity and heresy.
Capital punishment was often used for crimes against property as well as for serious offences such as murder and treason.
Bridewells or workhouses were set up to control vagrancy and begging.
Witch trials were a method of controlling the panic and fear associated with witchcraft.

Industrial Revolution (1700-1900)

Introduction of modern police forces like the Bow Street Runners and later the Metropolitan Police, provided structure and uniformity in combating crime.
Transportation to Australia was utilised as a punishment for a wide range of crimes.
Prison reforms began to take place, leading to increased use of imprisonment instead of physical punishment.
Juvenile courts were established to better deal with crimes committed by children.

20th Century Present (1900-Present)

Probation and community service orders were introduced as alternatives to prison.
Greater emphasis was put on crime prevention strategies like community policing, CCTV surveillance, and public education around crime risks.
A more holistic approach to crime control was developed, incorporating social services, mental and physical health services, and education.
Advances in forensic science and technology vastly improved crime detection methods, such as fingerprinting and DNA analysis.