Debates surrounding casino gaming development in the US often are based on the assumption that the opening of a casino is followed by an increase in crime in the host community and surrounding areas. This paper examined crime volume in Detroit, Michigan and neighboring communities before, during and after the three Detroit casinos opened. Findings indicated that total Index Crime offenses did not increase in Detroit. However, it appeared that the volume of certain types of crime slightly increased while others decreased. Based on the analysis, this paper concluded that there is no alarming indication to suggest that the volume of crime has increased when the casinos opened in the city. In addition, this paper offers strategies to overcome some of the problems that are associated with the use of crime data
