This contribution discusses the supplementary value of media analyses to understanding the relationship between media and crime. Analyses of media framing and media hypes are discussed on the basis of two cases: the case of New Years Eve in Cologne in 2015 and the “bus incident” of Moroccan Dutch youngsters in Gouda in 2008. The two cases presented here illustrate the significance of media analysis in criminology and its relevance in a media society. Analyses of the media representation and the societal reactions show the influence of media on the image building about crime. Since media are a predominant force of modern society and mediatization is a characteristic of the present tense, media representation has a great impact on the perceptions of crime and punishment, and our reality.

In the Netherlands two experiments are conducted with a new kind of collaboration between probation and prosecution. The experiments aimed for the development of meaningful, contextual and tailor-made sanctioning. As a result, the experiments reached a new group of citizens that probation nor social services ever reached before, people who commit very light offenses, but struggle with heavy social problems. The new method of working resembles short intensive case management (hit and run) and includes commitment of social context and close collaboration with social work and care. Based on the results, probation and prosecution decided to implement this method in all Dutch regions and the Ministry of Safety and Justice adapted their financing structure.