Research Reports

To date, preliminary research on the effects of Marcellus Shale development activity has found limited or mixed results linking criminal activity to well development, although some studies and qualitative data suggest a relationship, at least in some communities. This research used publically available data to examine the relationship between Marcellus Shale development and crime before and after the onset of Marcellus Shale activity. The analysis focused on arrest rates for five crimes: overall minor crimes, driving under the influence, public drunkenness, drug abuse violations, and disorderly conduct. The findings suggest that of the five crimes, driving under the influence and disorderly conduct arrest rates were associated with well density, controlling for other factors. The other three crime categories - minor crimes, public drunkenness, and drug abuse violations - are not significantly related to Marcellus Shale well development across counties or over time. 

This research used data from public agencies to describe the potential association between Marcellus Shale development and criminal activity and three components of the criminal justice system (law enforcement, courts, corrections).