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Criminal Justice in America

NCJ Number
96026
Author(s)
M Croddy; T Clark; T Engler; C Martz
Date Published
1983
Length
215 pages
Annotation
This text explores basic elements of the criminal justice system -- police, criminal law and procedures, corrections, and juvenile justice -- as well as the impact of crime on victims, crime causes, and citizen crime prevention efforts.
Abstract
Crime is examined first in terms of victims, offender profiles, and criminal law. Specific topics covered include victim compensation laws, victim services, gangs, crime in schools, confidence games, and the insanity defense. The next chapter discusses the role of law enforcement, the history of policing, people's attitudes toward the police, the nature of police work, search and seizure laws, and legal limits on police authority. By taking the reader through the processing of a homicide case, the book provides a behind-the-scenes look at how the justice system handles a criminal case. The facts and laws governing the case are presented, along with opportunities for the student to play the roles of attorney, judge, and juror. An overview of the correctional system traces the history of punishment philosophies in the United States and discusses the retribution versus rehabilitation debate, sentencing practices, probation, community service, prison conditions today, parole, and the death penalty. After exploring philosophical trends underlying the juvenile justice system, the text examines controversial issues, such as juveniles' constitutional rights, community-based corrections, and waiver to adult courts. Finally, crime causes and ways citizens can cooperate with government to reduce crime are discussed. Each chapter contains numerous examples, discussion questions, and student activities.