These cases address the negative consequences of the policy, especially in possibly abrogating the constitutional rights of citizens and hence victimizing them. The government's decision to protect organized crime witnesses demonstrates that criminal justice policy is in a constant state of flux and that policy makers must be confronted with the possible negative consequences of their policy before they react. It also illustrates the trial and error basis of criminal justice policy, pointing out the occurrence of unforeseen and often unintended results of policy. 26 references. (Author abstract modified)