Crime is down, perception of crime is up
The Globe says that across the USA, severe crimes are falling to levels not seen since the 1960s, while people surveyed believe that crime is worse than ever.
http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/ideas/articles/2010/02/14/imaginary_fiends/
http://www.boston.com/bostonglobe/ideas/articles/2010/02/14/imaginary_fiends/