NCJ Number
99903
Date Published
1985
Length
251 pages
Annotation
This examination of changing trends in public attitudes toward crime and the criminal justice system has as its thesis that public frustration and fear have arisen from the perception that the system no longer reflects the will or values of the people.
Abstract
Factors contributing to these perceptions are illustrated in accounts of such criminal proceedings as the vigilante charges against Bernard Goetz, who shot four muggers, and the acquittal of Klaus von Bulow of the attempted murder of his socialite wife. Among these factors are the rising crime rates, lengthy trial and sentencing procedures, probation and parole policies that turn offenders into the streets after short terms, prison overcrowding, the adversarial (rather than truth-finding) nature of trials, and overconcern with the rights of the defendant at the expense of the rights of victims and the public. Recommendations for improving the system are made with respect to the definitions and motivations of crime, handling of criminals and victims, the role of the police, jury powers, prosecution and defense strategies, the insanity defense, and the death sentence. The welfare system and the breakdown of the family are discussed as they contribute to the high proportion of black violent offenders. The need for community crime prevention efforts is noted. Chapter notes and approximately 165 references are provided.