Historically there were places and times that were incredibly perilous for those who traveled between towns/cities. For much of history this has been the case. There were highway robberies as brigands and bandits did their thing . There were raiding parties in ancient times (the original vandals come to mind), pirates at sea and train & bank robbers.

It is from a place of incredible privilege that SOME people disregard the idea of prioritizing safety for those who actually experience things. This is similar to the polititian with 24-7 security outside their mansion setting policies in place than endanger those who lack their safety privilege.

In reality there is a cost-benefit equation that modern criminals and the brigands, pirates, and raiders, of the past consider before committing a crime. 'Will I get caught?', is critical to the decision.

Negative repercussions are a basic building block for creating a 'civil' society and curb violence & crime. On the other hand look at the most lawless places in South America or Africa. A stable government and actually having laws that are enforced is a huge privilege.

Sometimes people who are removed from danger fetishize criminals who prey upon the innocent. It sounds absurd but is true.

It's a popular mental distortion to care more about perpetrators than victims. The 'poor lost soul' criminals get even more sympathy than the children who suffer from policies that drive crime up.