With decades of experience researching gangs, youth violence, and drug markets, Dr Simon Harding of Criminology Services is at the forefront of criminology in the UK. His work goes beyond theory, engaging directly with gang-affiliated young people to uncover the realities of crime and its evolving dynamics.
In this interview, Dr Harding discusses the changing landscape of crime, from county lines expansion to the impact of social media, as well as the challenges of integrating criminological research into policy and legal proceedings. He also explores common misconceptions about criminal behaviour, the role of expert witnesses in court, and how legal professionals can better leverage criminological expertise in their case strategies.
As Director of the National Centre for Gang Research Ltd, you work closely with the Home Office, MPS, NCA, and HMICFRS on issues like youth violence, gangs, and county lines. How does your research and expertise inform policymaking and law enforcement strategies?
I'm fortunate enough to have been at the cutting edge of research on drugs, street gangs and crime and have achived this by getting into the weeds and working directly with young people and hearing their voices. Sadly, translating this into policy is difficult and the political will is not there to hear the challenging messages that research will deliver; nor do they always wish to make the changes required.
Criminal behaviour is constantly evolving-what are some emerging crime trends that legal professionals should be aware of?
In the UK we are seeing a recent evolution of gang culture and also drug markets. Both are altered and accelerated by social media. This has impacted our metro areas but also our smaller towns as both gangs and county lines expand. In some areas this means increased crime and violence.
From a criminology perspective, how has public perception of crime changed in recent years, and does this impact how cases are handled in court?
I actually think there is little change overall as the same misconceptions, prejudices and misunderstandings persist. There is some new awareness of issues of racial stereotyping and also of neurodiversity and poverty as drivers of criminal behaviour, but we still have a long way to go.
Expert witnesses often play a crucial role in shaping legal arguments. What are some common misconceptions about criminology that you encounter in the courtroom?
Common misconceptions include the myth of the black gangster or the working-class boy driven to crime because he was simply a 'bad lot'. Other issues include a false view that only working-class people get involved in violence or drugs; or that all drug users are low-life. Such beliefs are wrong but still all too prevalent.
With the rise of digital and cybercrime, do traditional criminological theories still apply, or do we need a new approach to understanding criminal behaviour?
Yes, Broadly they do, although theories such a Moral Panic theory and Labelling theory now seem quite dated and tired. We need new theories which incorporate social media and digital lives and also theories which relate to the global nature of some crimes.
Your work involves direct engagement with gang-affiliated young people. What insights have you gained from these interactions that are often missing from mainstream discussions on youth crime?
Several fascinating insights have emerged, firstly, many young people become involved through debt bondage - often from an unpaid cannabis debt. Levels of coercion, violence and exploitation are disturbing and surprising. Also, newer narratives of crime being a survival tactic is more common. More positively, I think the energy, adaptability and entrepreneurialism of young people is overlooked, but fascinating.
In high-profile cases, media coverage can shape public opinion before a trial even begins. How do you see this affecting the way expert evidence is perceived in court?
Social media now informs us immediately, but it can bring multiple opinions or even bonkers conspiracy theories, which can be unhelpful. This can lead to public pressure or even interference in police investigations - everyone is now an armchair detective. In court, too many prejudices can still surface; for example, some think a mature white male (me) cannot possibly know anything about street gangs, Drill music, or the life of a drug user or dealer. So, I've learned it is important to have a strong and relevant life experience to counter anyone challenging your knowledge, skill set, or CV.
What advice would you give to legal professionals looking to better integrate criminological expertise into their case strategies?
I think just roll up your sleeves and get involved with young people, build your experience. Moreover, listen to young people and their voices. Strive to understand multi-level issues of poverty and the lived experience of young people living in poverty. Keep reading and learning as the nature of crime changes continually - fraud and cybercrime are now huge issues. Stay alert to exploitation, coercion and modern slavery as these issues surround us all and are endemic.
