William I believed crimes were committed against the King's Peace rather than against other people, and was therefore much harsher on criminals.
What impact did the Normans have on crime?
Medieval chroniclers say England was a safer and more law-abiding place after the Norman conquest. However, this was out of fear rather than love for the Normans.
How did Norman language change crime and punishment?
The Normans primarily spoke French. They introduced many French and Latin words into the English language, many of them linked to the law.