Difficulties in statistical interpretation of crime

Introduction: the author considers errors in the interpretation of statistical data in criminological research, specifics of statistical interpretation in data analysis including research challenges. Materials and Methods: certain forms of statistical observation of the Main Informational and Analytical Center of the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Russia laid the basis for the study. The author analyzed the state of accounting and registration discipline in the internal affairs bodies for the period 2021-2022. Results: definitions of the concept "interpretation" were given, which currently have different scientific interpretations. The author identifies various approaches to understanding statistical interpretation and related categories - interpretation and explanation. A model of the research process of the state of crime is presented, the testamentary stage of which is interpretation. Chapter 22 of the Сriminal Сode of the Russian Federation demonstrates that the insignificant number of crimes recorded by statistics in economic activity sometimes leads to their biased and unreliable interpretation. Discussion and Conclusions: In conclusion, it is noted that objectively and reliably interpreted data make it possible to form the main directions of crime prevention and their use in predictive and managerial activities of internal affairs bodies. Errors in the interpretation of statistical data form a scientific misconception about a research problem.