Your comment piece was somewhat of an understatement (The Argus, September 8).

As a 71-year-old, I’m increasingly concerned with the amount of all types of crime I read about in The Argus on a daily basis. Contrary to what the experts tell us about crime figures falling, all I can say is I’m not convinced.

Even a minor crime causes anguish and, until you are a victim, you’ll never know the hurt and heartache it can cause.

Unfortunately the deterrent – prison – isn’t working. Why are they all full up?

Perhaps it’s time to revert to more archaic forms of punishment and I don’t mean village stocks, although the threat of some sort of humiliation might make potential criminals think twice before embarking on a life of crime.

AR Edwards, Lewes Road, Eastbourne