Analysis of the Practice of Conviction for Theft in Ukraine in 2003–2024
Abstract
Abstract. The relevance of the study is determined by the fact that theft remains the most common type of property crime in Ukraine, while issues of fairness and effectiveness of punishment for its commission gain particular importance under conditions of constant legislative changes and socio-economic challenges. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive analysis of convictions for theft under Article 185 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine in 2003–2024, taking into account the dynamics of convictions, changes in the structure of penalties, and the impact of legislative innovations. The methodological framework of the study combines statistical analysis of state reporting data (Form No. 6), the comparative legal method for examining the evolution of criminal and administrative legislation, as well as dynamic, structural, and systemic approaches, which made it possible to trace patterns in the development of judicial practice in connection with socio-economic conditions and reforms. The results of the study demonstrate that the number of convicted persons and the structure of punishments for theft significantly depended on legislative changes. Three sub-periods of development were identified: 2003–2008 – a gradual decrease in convictions due to the increase in the non-taxable minimum income of citizens; 2009–2010 – a sharp increase following the reduction of the threshold value of stolen property; 2011–2024 – a tendency toward decrease with certain fluctuations caused by procedural reforms and martial law. It is shown that imprisonment remained the dominant type of punishment, the share of which rose sharply after 2022, while fines and community service practically lost their significance. At the same time, the frequency of applying probation and milder punishments increased. The scientific novelty of the article lies in a comprehensive retrospective analysis of sentencing practices for theft over more than twenty years, which made it possible to identify patterns in the transformation of criminal law policy. The practical significance consists in the possibility of using the obtained results to improve legislation, develop unified approaches in law enforcement, and form a more balanced and fair system of punishments.
Keywords: convicted persons; theft; property; punishment; imprisonment; fine.
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References
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