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Women, Crimes, and Judicial Dispositions - A Comparative Examination of the Female Offender

NCJ Number
96611
Journal
Sociological Spectrum Volume: 4 Issue: 2-3 Dated: (1984) Pages: 249-273
Author(s)
L Williams; L T Winfree; H E Theis
Date Published
1984
Length
25 pages
Annotation
Using records from the Seattle Police Department, this study explored issues of a new 'masculinized' female offender and a 'chivalrous' criminal justice system.
Abstract
Crime-specific arrest statistics were used to study both questions. Arrest statistics were recoded three ways: according to traditional views of the 'masculinity' of an offense, legalistic crime categories, and seriousness ratings. These three categories were compared by sex across a 4 year period. Comparisons of final dispositions provided the basis of a final look at the 'chivalry' issue. The findings suggest that females are not making great inroads into either traditionally masculine crimes or crime in general, and while there is little in the data to suggest prejudicial treatment based on sex, chivalry is supported by certain arrest and disposition rates. Tabular data and 45 references are provided. (Author abstract modified)