Dear Piper,

If they were to cut welfare off do you think that the crime rate would go up?

–Pinky G

Dear Pinky G,

I must admit, your question stumped me. I’ve been thinking about it for the last few days and here’s what I’ve decided: I think if welfare were to suddenly be cut off, yes, there would be an increase in crime. When governments ignore the needs of the people, the people tend to fend for themselves. I don’t think there’d be an increase in violent crime, though, just the more petty variety. However, over time I think the crime rate would level out to where it once was. But what do I know? I’m just a girl with a computer and high-speed Internet access.

–Piper