Alcohol pricing
Evidence-rated crime-reduction intervention (EMMIE).
Effect on crime
reduces crime
Evidence quality
strong
What the evidence says
This intervention focuses on adjusting alcohol pricing and tax to reduce incidents of drink-driving and violence. Evidence suggests that increasing alcohol taxes and prices leads to a decrease in alcohol-related crimes, including traffic accidents and violence. A review including 50 studies indicates that a doubling of alcohol tax could reduce traffic crash deaths by 11%, indicating a significant impact on crime rates.
How it works
Increased sales and excise taxes lead to higher alcohol prices, which alter drinking patterns. Changes in drinking behavior are associated with lower rates of alcohol-related crimes, such as assaults and traffic fatalities.
Source: College of Policing Crime Reduction Toolkit (What Works Centre for Crime Reduction). Summarised 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the College of Policing.