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Essay / Research Paper Abstract
This 5 page paper discusses determinate and indeterminate sentencing models along with other trends in criminal justice such as truth in sentencing guidelines and three strikes sentences. Bibliography lists 4 sources.
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5 pages (~225 words per page)
File: RT13_SA727sen.rtf
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Unformatted sample text from the term paper:
They do not provide enough room for judges to make positive decisions that help the victims and perpetrators alike. Indeed, the system is not designed only as a mechanism to
punish offenders, but to create a positive model for the society. Even criminals can be rehabilitated, and it is sometimes the case that young or first time offenders should avoid
prison at all costs. After all, prisons have been viewed as institutions with a revolving door. Some claim that prisons do not only punish offenders, but also educate them in
the business of crime. In effect, they do the reverse of what they have been designed to do. Sentencing specifically has been rather controversial, particularly of late. Mandatory minimums
have seen upstanding citizens behind bars. A college student, for instance, may have been caught with a small amount of cocaine and end up behind bars. It is argued that
they are young and simply made a mistake. They should not be behind bars with violent criminals. They should be given a second chance. But the judges hands are sometimes
tied. Mandatory minimums and three strikes laws make it impossible to use discretion. During the past few decades, there has been a trend toward determinate sentencing models that go along
with a tough on crime stance. Of course, juvenile justice has to some extent been influenced by this trend. The courts have seen children tried as adults for the
crime of murder. These children have undergone formal trials and have received harsh sentencing. Yet, Mears (2003) points out that sentencing in juvenile courts has been also influenced by new
trends like drug court, something that also offers rehabilitative avenues. On one hand, sentencing has become more stringent, but on the other, alternative models are being explored. There are two
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