This paper will examine the research question of whether or not income inequality increases crime rate. Income inequality can be defined as an unequal distribution of collective or individual income across the populace in an economy. In conjunction with crime rate, the importance of income inequality is significant. Equality is a critical characteristic for most societies. The increase in inequality specifically in economic terms, creates a greater gap between the wealthy and the underprivileged. Inequality could equate to social tensions amongst the populace as the less-fortunate feel deprived compared to the wealthy. These social tensions and unsatisfying feelings of the disadvantaged lead them to pursue compensation and gratification for
