Maxim 1.5.95
Impunity always invites to greater crimes.
Impunitas semper ad deteriora invitat.
Source: 5 Co. 69; Jackson
Difficulty 2/5 — Approachable
Explanation
Failure to punish wrongdoing encourages escalation — when offenders go unpunished, they and others are emboldened to commit worse offenses.
Where this applies
- Government officials who break the law face no consequences and do it again.
- A repeat offender gets away with crimes and becomes bolder each time.
Cite this maxim
NeCede Max. 1.5.95 — Impunity always invites to greater crimes. — 5 Co. 69; Jackson (Impunitas semper ad deteriora invitat.)
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