NCJ Number
173576
Journal
Criminology Volume: 36 Issue: 3 Dated: August 1998 Pages: 481-511
Date Published
1998
Length
31 pages
Annotation
This article explores the effect of race in the decision to prosecute and sentence eligible defendants as "habitual" offenders.
Abstract
During fiscal year 1992-93, 9,690 males admitted to prison in Florida were statutorily eligible (two prior felony convictions or one prior violent felony conviction) for sentencing as "habitual" offenders. Approximately 20 percent received that disposition. They will serve at least 75 percent of their enhanced sentence as compared with the State average of about 40 percent. Logistic regression, controlling for criminal record, crime seriousness and other relevant factors, shows a significant and substantial race effect. The disadvantage for black defendants is particularly strong for drug offenses and for property crimes that have relatively high victimization rates for whites (larceny, burglary). Race is less consequential for violent and weapons-related crimes. Race effects are more often significant in sentencing contexts that are low in terms of percent black, racial income inequality, drug arrest rates, and violent crime rates. Notes, tables, references