The Criminal Justice System

Have control over who is arrested

Police Discretion- Power to decide what crimes are reported

Based on:

1. Severity of Offense

2. Wishes of the Victim

3. Attitude of Suspect

4. Bystanders

1. Determines guilt or

innocence

2. Assign Punishment

90% of cases are settled before reaching court

Plea Bargain

-Suspect pleads guilty to a lesser crime in order to obtain a lighter sentence

Attempt to do the following:

1. Retribution

Act of revenge for society

2. Deterrence

Discourage others from

committing crimes3. Rehabilitation

Try to reform a criminal

4. Social Protection

prohibits new offenses

Some argue that the corrections system is bad or flawed

Recidivism- repetition of criminal behavior

62% of criminals are released and charged with a new crime

41% return to jail within 3 years of release