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NeCede's

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.

Legal domains

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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