Which concept suggests that minor offenses, if tolerated, may lead to more serious crimes?

The concept that suggests minor offenses, if tolerated, may lead to more serious crimes is known as the Broken Windows theory. This theory posits that visible signs of disorder and neglect, such as graffiti, broken windows, or vandalism, signal to the community that social norms are not being enforced. When these minor offenses are ignored, it can create an environment where more serious crimes are more likely to occur.

The idea is based on the premise that addressing small issues promptly helps to maintain order and deters potential criminals from committing more serious acts. Therefore, the proactive management of minor offenses can help prevent the escalation of crime within a community, reinforcing the importance of a vigilant approach to both minor and serious crimes.

In contrast, other concepts like routine activity theory focus on the interactions of motivated offenders, suitable targets, and lack of capable guardianship. Situational crime prevention strategies aim to reduce opportunities for crime, and crime displacement refers to the phenomenon when crime is deterred in one area only to increase in another. Thus, while all options provide insights into crime dynamics, Broken Windows theory specifically highlights the connection between minor offenses and the potential escalation to more serious crimes.