According to the material, crime control is primarily the responsibility of which entity?

Crime control is primarily the responsibility of local government because most criminal activity and law enforcement functions occur at the community level. Local law enforcement agencies, such as city police departments and county sheriffs, are the first responders to crime and are responsible for maintaining public safety, enforcing laws, and investigating crimes within their jurisdictions.

Local governments are equipped to address immediate community concerns and issues as they arise, making them vital in handling crime control effectively. They have a better understanding of the unique needs of their communities compared to federal or state entities, which often operate on larger scales. Additionally, local governments work closely with community organizations and citizens to develop preventive measures and programs tailored to their specific environments.

While state authorities and the federal government play significant roles in crime control, particularly for more serious offenses that cross jurisdictions or involve federal law, the primary day-to-day enforcement and response to crime typically rest with local agencies. International agencies are also important, particularly in matters relating to transnational crime, but they do not handle local crime issues.