NCJ Number
88205
Date Published
1982
Length
33 pages
Annotation
Expansion of a strategy of targeting Federal resources on cases involving recidivists offers the potential for reducing crime substantially in both Federal and local jurisdictions.
Abstract
Survey responses from Federal investigators and prosecutors and from prosecutors involved in local career criminal programs, along with analysis of the recidivism patterns of 1,700 Federal offenders formed the basis of this conclusion. The offenders committed an estimated average of eight nondrug offenses for each year they were free, but the majority were not rearrested. Using statistically derived criteria for separating recidivists from nonrecidivists was more effective than using either a random selection process or conventionally derived criteria. However, Federal attorneys currently focus on elements of the offense rather than on information about the offender. They also resist the narrowing of their exercise of discretion. Like the Federal prosecutors, Federal investigators and local prosecutors support the general concept of a Federal career criminal program but are skeptical about various specific aspects of such a program. The creation of a Federal career criminal program should be sensitive to these concerns. The U.S. Attorney and the local prosecutors in each Federal district should develop a coordinated policy for the prosecution of dual jurisdiction offenses, especially those involving repeat offenders. Statistical prediction should support the exercise of discretion in choosing cases and targeting resources on them. Federal investigative agencies could share in the responsibility and accountability for the eventual outcomes of cases. Both Federal and local prosecutors should also use opportunities to increase conviction rates for the most crime-prone offenders. Tables and 26 reference notes are provided.