NCJ Number
97907
Date Published
1985
Length
30 pages
Annotation
This paper reviews studies of white-collar crime pertaining its definition and sentencing.
Abstract
Cross-classification used in the first study reviewed involves four categories: (1) common crimes committed by the less-educated, (2) common crimes by the college-educated, (3) white-collar crimes committed by the less-educated, and (4) white-collar crimes by the college-educated. Sentencing studies reviewed indicate that definitional problems can be resolved in operational terms for the purpose of empirical investigations. It is suggested by sentencing studies that white-collar offenders are treated relatively leniently by the courts. Corporate compliance to occupational safety and health issues is often dismissed. Despite deterrents such as penalties and fines which try to ensure that the unnacceptable act will not occur, either on the part of the sanctioned or on the part of another person or organization. It has been found that the most common method of dealing with white-collar offenses is to impose financial penalties. Compulsory community service has been proposed as an alternative punitive measure for white-collar crimes. Seventy-seven references are listed.