The former Chief Constable of Greater Manchester Police warns the cost of living crisis is driving more disaffected youngsters into crime.
Sir Peter Fahy, who served as an officer for 34 years, said criminal gangs will be “rubbing their hands with glee” and “prospering” as communities come under increased strain.
Sir Peter, who retired in 2015, said “huge numbers” of young people fell out of the school system over the pandemic, leaving them more susceptible to crime.
He told the Sunday Mirror: "Young people who fall out of the system are far more likely to get involved in criminality and end up in custody."
He added that he can see the UK going in the “same direction as the United States”, with spikes in violent crime and greater inequality.
“Whenever communities are under that strain, gangs prosper," he said.
“In the United States, we just have seen an incredible increase in homicides and violence in general. We really haven't seen anything like that here yet - but you can see us going in the same direction.
“People in poorer parts feel abandoned and are therefore more likely to develop an alternative economy and criminal justice system.
"There are more guns in America, but guns really aren't the underlying cause - they’re just a means.
“Police do not have a lot to offer poorer areas, because the system is doing nothing for them. You can see the same pattern happening here.
“That creates dislocation and damages the relationship between the police and the public. It's dangerous and creates a wider crisis in society.”
Sir Peter was speaking in the wake of the murder of Tyson Fury's cousin Rico Burton outside a bar in Altrincham, Greater Manchester.
He said all the “infrastructure” of youth community groups and boxing clubs - such as the one Fury trained in as a youngster, have gone - leaving young lads vulnerable to drugs and a life of crime.
