Increasing penalties as a strategy to combat crime has limited effectiveness and does not solve the fundamental problems of public security, according to an analysis by specialist Guaracy Mingardi, during participation in the WW.
The criminal analyst and member of the FBSP (Brazilian Public Security Forum) highlights that the central issue is the State’s ability to identify and reach criminals.
“The big question is: is the State prepared, are the police prepared, the Public Prosecutor’s Office, to reach the criminal? That’s the big problem. It’s not so much the size of the sentence,” stated Mingardi.
Impact of Penal Changes
In the specific case of crimes related to , Mingardi recognizes that increasing penalties may have some positive effect.
“A homicide committed as a result of the actions of a criminal organization could face up to 30 years, which can make criminals think twice before committing such an act”, he explains.
The expert emphasizes that the solution to public security problems requires a broader and more complex approach. The effectiveness of fighting crime depends on factors such as organization, time and, mainly, investigative intelligence.
Structural Challenges
For Mingardi, it is essential that the police, the Public Ministry and others are adequately prepared to face crime.
“The big problem is not so much the size of the sentence, but whether the State is prepared to reach the criminal”, he argues.
Although some proposed measures may bring specific improvements, the expert emphasizes that there is no single and immediate solution through legislation. Effectively combating crime demands continuous investigation and police intelligence work.
