This is a loaded question. Better for whom? What are the metrics and attributes you are using to determine if it's better or worse and what are the desired goals?
Personally, I think it's a lot EASIER to judge people based on group/demographic as you require a lot less information to make a decision. It's a LOT of work to judge based on individuals as you must know them well and it's a complex task that most people are incapable of ever doing.
Pretty much. There is no such thing as a crime free place.