London's murder rate overtook that of New York in February and March this year, and the violent crime rate seems to be rising in other parts of the UK too.
There's much debate about the causes, with suggestions that austerity, gang culture, social media, drugs and family breakdown are all to blame.
But what is the reality behind the headlines? David Aaronovitch is joined by expert guests to discuss why violent crime is rising and look at possible remedies.
CONTRIBUTORS
Professor Susan McVie - Statistical Criminologist at Edinburgh University
Dr Victor Olisa - former Chief Superintendent in the Metropolitan Police
Karyn McCluskey - Chief Executive of Community Justice Scotland.
Mark Easton - BBC Home Editor
Phil Mackie - BBC Midlands Correspondent.