NCJ Number
178008
Date Published
1998
Length
48 pages
Annotation
This booklet describes the concept of biblically based restorative justice and its application in criminal justice systems.
Abstract
Under the American criminal justice system: (1) prisons have little effect combating fear of crime or the rising number of households touched by crime; (2) prisons do not rehabilitate but seem to entrench criminal behavior; (3) there is increasing reliance on prisons, at astronomical costs to taxpayers; and (4) the injustice of excluding victims is increasingly apparent. The booklet describes the biblical vision of crime and justice, and scripture and crime. The fundamental principles of restorative justice are repairing injuries to victims; active involvement of victims, offenders and communities; and governmental responsibility for preserving order, with community responsibility for establishing peace. The Justice Fellowship advocates victims’ rights, intermediate punishments, prison work programs and religious freedom. Table, bibliography, resources and programs, notes