Category: Criminal Justice

Criminal justice system reforms and other legal measures in the US have resulted in the creation of programs and specific laws that are fundamental to the improvement of child protection. This essay selects the enactment of Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act and International Parental Child Kidnapping Act from the study by Karmen (2016) and searches for evidence of the success of the provided measures to assist in the location of missing children.

The enactment of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act mandates that the FBI have to enter information regarding a missing or kidnapped child in the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) records in less than two hours after receiving notification from the police. In the majority of states, the adoption of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act improved the registries greatly (Lytle, 2015). Since its enactment, it has demonstrated enhancement of child protection as many criminals of child sexual assault have been prosecuted under its directives thus resulting in the reduction of such acts. The application of the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act demands every person found guilty of any sexually related offense to seek registration as a sex criminal for later posting on the internet where everyone can see. This has caused one person to be sentenced to life imprisonment for failing to register and taking advantage of his being homeless and lacking a constant physical address.

Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act offers effective measures that help in finding missing children through such things as the establishment of a countrywide database that entails collection of DNA evidence and record for easy tracking of offenders. The use of Global Positioning System expertise could also result in the easy tracing of criminals. The provision of law enforcement officers with sufficient resources under the Act enables them to find criminals of offenses against children and prosecute them successfully. Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act increased the compulsory minimum imprisonment term to 25 years for the offense of abducting a child and 30 years for sexual assault (Lytle, 2015). These measures prevent would-be criminals from engaging in such acts and ensure justice for victims.

The International Parental Child Kidnapping Act is useful in enhancing child protection and offering successful measures to help in finding missing children (Karmen, 2016). It is vital to assist child victims of parental kidnapping as they could be at a high risk of missing school and developing lasting psychological challenges such as mood changes, sleep disorder, violent conduct, eating problems, and nervousness to mention a few. If the child victims of parental kidnapping grow into adulthood and do not find valuable help, they could struggle with such things as identity, interrelations, and family matters.

In an effort of ensuring child protection, the International Parental Child Kidnapping Act outlaws cases of one parent removing their children from the US or keeping them in other nations with the aim of hindering the custodial rights of the other parent. For instance, a couple could have a daughter in the US and after a marital dispute, the mother moves with the child to a different nation with the purpose of keeping her away from the father with no intention of ever returning. The Act offers successful measures of locating kidnapped children and convicting the offenders as a way of preventing such actions (Karmen, 2016). Under the Act, any parent found guilty of such a crime could spend up to three years in prison. Moreover, the return of a kidnapped child to the US is usually reached through negotiation where the United States Department of State works with foreign representatives and law enforcement officers to realize successful outcomes.

References

Karmen, A. (2016). Crime victims: An introduction to victimology (9th ed.). Boston: Cengage Learning.

Lytle, R. (2015). Variation in criminal justice policy-making: An exploratory study using sex offender registration and community notification laws. Criminal Justice Policy Review, 26(3), 211-233.

The 3rd chapter of the Statistics for Criminology and Criminal Justice text by Jacinta M. Gau talks about univariate and bivariate elements as well as their uses in criminal statistics and programs like the SPSS. The first part of the chapter introduces the three univariate data distribution displays that are frequently used in statistics, such as frequencies, proportions, and percentages (Gau, 2018). Frequency is defined as a simple raw count, whereas proportions show how many times a particular variable appears in a sample in relation to its total size (Gau, 2018). Finally, percentages are used as a standardized form of frequency, ranging from 0 to 100%.

After discussing proportion and percentages, the parameter of rates is introduced, which is often used to show the incidence of a particular factor in 1,000, 10,000, or 100,000 cases. The text makes a point that looking at numbers alone makes a poor presentation, so pictures are used to make the data more recognizable and engaging for the audience (Gau, 2018). Graphs and charts aid with enabling others to encompass the message. Pie charts are utilized when there are five or fewer variables to illustrate what part of 100% (or whole pie) belongs to which. Bars are used for categoric variables and proportions. Line graphs are useful for longitudinal data, and histograms can be used for grouped data that does not fit into any of the previous models (Gau, 2018). The author makes a case that to keep a presentation engaging and clear, different kinds of visualizations should be used.

The point the chapter makes is sound, as visualization based on numbers alone is next to impossible and is confusing for the unprepared audience. However, some charts can be equally confusing, especially if they feature terms and variables that are not familiar to the audience. Simplification can achieve understanding but at the risk of simplifying matters that are naturally complicated, resulting in a skewered impression.

Reference

Gau, J. M. (2018). Statistics for criminology and criminal justice (3rd ed.). Sage.

Research and statistics are essential components of the study of criminal justice and criminology. In Chapter Four, Gau (2018) defines the concept of the measures of central tendency and data distribution shapes. The authors primary argument refers to the importance of averages and data distribution types for criminology researchers and practitioners (Gau, 2018). Indeed, the predictive capability of the measures of central tendency allows for drawing general conclusions and providing understanding about groups of objects or people based on data.

Another point made in the chapter refers to the role of data distribution shapes. The distributions nature is critical to evaluate for identifying other descriptive statistics. Furthermore, Gau (2018) explores such terms as the mode, the median, and the mean. In particular, the author highlights the modes usefulness for categorical data in contrast to continuous data. According to Gau (2018), the median is more informative, especially for continuous variables, compared to ordinal variables. In turn, another argument emphasizes that the mean can only be calculated with interval or ratio data and is not applicable to categorical variables (Gau, 2018). Understanding the appropriateness of each measure of central tendency is essential since it allows the researcher to apply the relevant tool to analyze the data set. The author identifies the strengths and weaknesses of each measure, which is vital for choosing the right approach for certain types of data.

To conclude, the information provided in the chapter is essential for understanding the measures of central tendency. The evaluation of the middle points in sets of data provides a general basis for assumptions and conclusions, crucial in criminal justice and criminology studies. For instance, statistical procedures can be utilized in observational studies and experiments. In these research types, statistical analysis is performed to analyze data, support a hypothesis, and draw conclusions.

Reference

Gau, J. M. (2018). Statistics for criminology and criminal justice (3^rd ed.). SAGE Publications.

Hypothesis Testing with Two Categorical Variables: Chi-Square in Criminal Justice and Criminology

Chapter 10 of the textbook provides an overview of the chi-square test of independence. This method provides a valid tool for testing hypotheses based on variables from the same category. This chapter continues with the example of the attitudes towards death penalties. The author explains how a researcher can use this test to prove whether or not men are likely to be in favor of death penalties than women and how education affects the decision.

The text reveals what steps must be taken while using this test to determine relationships between independent and dependent variables. The chi-square test is a vital tool for exploring the relationship between two variables on a subject of dependency, as it allows a researcher to demonstrate a meaningful impact of one variable onto another (Gau, 2018). Therefore, the hypothesis must be stated in a way that can be either proven or disproven by the chi-square test.

However, the author also points out that there are limitations to this method. Gau (2018) explicitly highlights that statistical significance does not always translate into practical significance (p. 293). The author points out that this test does not explain the measures of association, which require additional analysis of variables (Gau, 2018). Gau (2018) states that measures of association offer insight into the magnitude of the differences between groups so that we can figure out how strong the overlap is, which makes this test an essential step in some cases (p. 292).

In conclusion, the chi-square test of independence must be used as a part of a more extensive analysis that incorporates all practically relevant factors and assesses their value as evidence. Statistical significance is the key to an appropriate application of this method (Gau, 2018). The author provides a precise examination of the test, its applications and further analyses that might stem from the results of the chi-square test.

Hypothesis Testing with Two Population Means or Proportion in Criminal Justice and Criminology

In the eleventh chapter of the textbook, the author examines methods for statistical analysis of differences between variables. Two populations that are linked via a dependent variable must be assessed on the subject of dependency to determine a proper test to ensure the validity of the results (Gau, 2018). The chapter identifies the analytical process and breaks it into several steps necessary for its proper completion.

The examination of variables and their dependencies takes a primary spot in this chapter. Independent variables with no influence on each other, such as genders, can provide a statistically meaningful result that will reveal useful evidence (Gau, 2018). Sometimes, selected variables are interdependent or unequal, which leads to different types of analysis. The author examines the choice of a proper test and the logic behind it in the form of a simple algorithm. Dependent samples, which are mainly matched pairs or repeated measures, It is crucial to analyze variables that are brought into a comparable state, which requires a researcher to decide whether to use a pooled-variance or separate-variance approach (Gau, 2018). Two-population tests provide a meaningful way to pinpoint differences between proportions of independent variables in a sample, which allows researchers to determine many parameters, such as the effect of two treatment programs on recidivism (Gau, 2018).

In conclusion, these tests are critical in numerous situations in criminology, as they provide a valuable tool for the analysis of statistical data that might reveal further implications for consideration. The author shows how the results of various two-population tests are able to prove or disprove hypotheses involving these variables based on their significance (Gau, 2018). This statistical analysis expands the methods of defining the relationships between valuables and enables researchers to compare them accurately.

Reference

Gau, J. M. (2018). Statistics for criminology and criminal justice. SAGE Publications.

Introduction

The ultimate goal of criminal justice is to deal with various offenses that affect human welfare. Leaders in criminal justice should conduct numerous researches, think critically, and develop viable solutions that can improve the living conditions of more people (Ramirez, 2008). Many national and global agencies have been using the most desirable strategies to deal with the major crimes affecting humanity (Drudge, 2015). Despite such efforts, some issues make it hard for leaders in the criminal justice system to have peaceful nights. The major issues that call for immediate attention are presented below.

Key Issues in CJA Today

The connection between drug use and crime is a critical concern for many leaders in this field. Over 70 percent of criminals test positive for illegal drugs such as marijuana and cocaine (Drudge, 2015). Drug use has remained a major problem for the criminal justice system. New studies have shown a link between substance abuse and crime. Consequently, the number of crimes has increased significantly over the past three decades.

Juvenile offending has become another major issue affecting the United States. More youths and adolescents are committing new crimes every single day. The incarceration rate has increased significantly in the United States. Some analysts and humanitarian groups have argued that minorities are affected the most by this malpractice. The other major issue in criminal justice is violence against innocent women (Ramirez, 2008). In 2015, the National Institute of Justice (NIJ) indicated that around 1.3 million females were assaulted by their partners annually (Drudge, 2015).

Prioritizing the Issues

It has been hard for many professionals in criminal justice to prioritize most of the above issues. This is the case because the above key problems affect communities differently. For instance, drug abuse and crime have been observed to affect the lives of many people in some states and not others. However, the problem of crime remains the leading issue in different parts of the globe. In the United States, crime is a major challenge that forces the government to incur numerous expenses in an attempt to deal with it (Drudge, 2015). The level of crime has been associated with the increasing use of illegal drugs.

The second priority should be on the number of youths committing crimes in the country. Experts have been focusing on the best approaches to dealing with this problem. For example, some professionals have supported the use of restorative justice (Doyle, n.d.). Scholars believe that proper measures should be put in place to punish these juveniles. The outstanding fact is that more youths are committing a wide range of crimes than ever before (Drudge, 2015). That being the case, the criminal justice system must consider the most desirable approaches in an attempt to deal with this issue.

The rate of incarceration within the past decade has been unprecedented. The number of people engaging in various crimes or using illegal drugs has been on the rise (Garrison, 2009). This level of incarceration affects the targeted individuals and their respective family members. The government spends over fifty billion dollars to support these inmates (Drudge, 2015. This fact explains why new measures are needed to address this issue.

Violence against women is the other issue that should not be taken lightly by the criminal justice system. This is the case because women deserve care, support, and empowerment. Although this is not the first key issue for the criminal justice system, it should be wise for criminal justice leaders to support more women (Garrison, 2009). These measures will play a positive role in addressing the issues affecting the lives of many community members.

Effects on the Criminal Justice Profession

The criminal justice profession is usually guided by the changes experienced in different communities. For instance, criminal justice professionals will focus on the major issues affecting more individuals in society. The current focus has been on the use of illicit drugs and crimes. This is the case because the two constitute the major challenges affecting many American communities (Ramirez, 2008). That being the case, the government must identify new measures and initiatives that have the potential to minimize crimes in society.

Future professionals in the field of criminal justice will be focusing on the best initiatives to deal with the increasing number of youth offenders. These professionals must identify new measures to support these young ensures and encourage them to engage in productive activities. Criminal justice is a profession that should be guided and informed by evidence-based facts obtained from different communities (OConnor, 2015). The duties of the system are to minimize crime and ensure more people live in secure communities.

The criminal justice system is currently facing numerous challenges in its effort to deal with these key issues. Experts are undertaking new researches to identify new strategies that can address these problems. The government is forced to incur numerous expenses to support the welfare of the growing number of inmates (Ramirez, 2008). The criminal justice professionals will, therefore, continue to change by the issues experienced in different communities.

References

Doyle, A. (n.d.). Informational interviewing. Web.

Drudge, B. (2015). Facts encyclopedia, crime and law enforcement. Web.

Garrison, A. (2009). The influence of research on criminal justice policy making. Professional Issues in Criminal Justice, 4(1), 1-14.

OConnor, T. (2015). MegaLinks in criminal justice. Web.

Ramirez, F. (2008). Juvenile delinquency: current issues, best practices, and promising approaches. GPSOLO, 1(1), 1-13.

Introduction

The first exercise focused on the major issues affecting the criminal justice administration (CJA). The next activity was to interview one of the supervisors in the criminal justice system. The interview was aimed at understanding the measures undertaken to address such issues. During the interview, the supervisor indicated clearly that the same issues were being addressed by the law enforcement team. The supervisor identified crime, increased drug use, incarceration levels, violence against women, and juvenile delinquency as the major issues in the enforcement area (OConnor, 2015).

The interviewee indicated clearly that the CJA was undertaking several measures to handle the above issues. For example, the supervisor argued that the criminal justice department was embracing the use of modern technologies to improve security in the country. The approach was expected to deter crime and unearth the channels used to traffic illicit drugs (Garrison, 2009). The respondent indicated that the CJA was working with community members to deal with crime.

The supervisor indicated that new measures were being considered to achieve the best results. Parents, teachers, and guardians were being encouraged to monitor the behaviors of different children. This strategy was observed to produce positive results.

The exercise outlined some of the initiatives embraced by the department to deal with the key issues affecting the criminal justice system. For instance, the government was using restorative justice to reduce the number of youths in different prisons. The department was using reintegration programs and support systems to address the problem of juvenile offending.

The increasing level of incarceration in the country is unprecedented (Ramirez, 2008). The CJA is currently working with different stakeholders to deal with this problem. Many experts have argued that more minorities are imprisoned than the majority of whites. New measures are therefore being considered to ensure every law enforcement officer acts ethically.

Violence against females has become a major problem in the country. According to the supervisor, new ideas have been implemented in an attempt to deal with the vice. For example, the CJA encourages members of society to report different forms of domestic violence. Women were also advised to avoid abusive males and report every form of violence to the relevant authorities (Drudge, 2015).

Finally, the supervisor outlined several changes that were being considered for implementation within the next ten years. The criminal justice system was planning to support the construction of more restorative centers (Drudge, 2015). Such centers would be used to guide and reshape the behaviors of many youths. The department was planning to use various campaigns to promote the best parenting styles. The agency was planning to encourage more community members to engage in policing activities (True, 2012). The supervisor believed strongly that such campaigns would minimize the number of crimes in the country.

The leaders at the criminal justice system were collaborating with policymakers to ensure every person is tried fairly. Modern informatics and technologies were being put in place to detect crime and produce useful exhibits. The department was liaising with different research institutions to strengthen the use of DNA and biometrics. The government was expected to undertake new measures to streamline the immigration process. Such measures were aimed at destroying the channels used to smuggle illicit drugs into the country (Doyle, n.d.). Such strategies were expected to play a positive role in addressing the key issues affecting the countrys criminal justice system.

Interview

Targeted Interviewee

The purpose of the interview was to understand and analyze some of the major issues affecting the countrys criminal justice system (CJS). To get accurate and reliable information, I decided to interview one of the supervisors at the CJS department. I selected the individual because he had a better understanding of the major issues and challenges that affected many communities in the country. Additionally, I strongly believed that the supervisor was aware of the major strategies that were being considered in an attempt to deal with the problem of crime in the country (Drudge, 2015). That being the case, my choice of the interviewee played a critical role in making the study successful.

Reasons for Choosing the Supervisor

Several reasons explain why I decided to interview the above supervisor. To begin with, the individual had the responsibility of connecting different departments and agencies in the criminal justice system. This means that the supervisor had a better understanding of the major challenges that affected American society (True, 2012). After contacting the individual for the first time, he indicated clearly that he was available for an interview. It was, therefore, necessary to interview him because the other officials were unavailable or busy. The most outstanding thing is that the targeted interviewee presented meaningful information that can be used to analyze the issue of crime in the country. This fact shows clearly that the interview was successful.

Questions Asked During the Interview

One of the best strategies for getting quality information from an interview is through the use of appropriate questions. During the interview, several questions were considered to get quality information. The first question focused on the unique roles and objectives of the countrys criminal justice system. This question was considered to examine whether the department was acting within its objectives. The second question focused on the major challenges and issues that continued to affect the country.

From a personal perspective, this was the most important question during the interview because it was aimed at outlining the major issues that were making it hard for the department to realize its goals (OConnor, 2015). The purpose of the third question was to explore some of the initiatives used by the criminal justice system to deal with the identified issues. Finally, the interview was aimed at understanding the major policies and campaigns used by CJS to improve the level of security in every part of the country.

The outcome of the Interview

The targeted interview was successful because the supervisor managed to outline the major issues that were affecting the countrys criminal justice system. According to the respondent, issues such as juvenile delinquency increased the incarceration of citizens from minority groups, and violence against females was given priority by the CJS (OConnor, 2015). The interviewee also indicated that new measures were being considered to address these criminal justice issues. Members of the community were also being sensitized and encouraged to implement new programs in an attempt to address the above problems.

The interviewee gave me various documents to support his responses. This discussion, therefore, shows clearly that the interview was successful. This is the case because the exercise presented meaningful findings. The individual was ready to be interviewed again.

References

Doyle, A. (n.d.). Informational interviewing. Web.

Drudge, B. (2015). Facts encyclopedia, crime and law enforcement. Web.

Garrison, A. (2009). The influence of research on criminal justice policy making. Professional Issues in Criminal Justice, 4(1), 1-14.

OConnor, T. (2015). MegaLinks in criminal justice. Web.

Ramirez, F. (2008). Juvenile delinquency: current issues, best practices, and promising approaches. GPSOLO, 1(1), 1-13.

True, J. (2012). The political economy of violence against women. New York, NY: Oxford University Press.

Discussion 4.2: Disciplinary Procedures

Hutchinson, Keller, and Reid (2009) argue that prisoner discipline is something that should be taken seriously in order to support the goals of every correctional facility. This fact explains why extensive procedures are used to discipline inmates in different jails. Such procedures are put in place to ensure corrections officers impose the required behavior. The important goal is to have maximum effect on the conduct of every inmate (Hutchinson et al., 2009, p. 3). However, I strongly believe that such extensive procedures should not be used. This is the case because positive management of inmates can produce effective behaviors. The approach can also create safe working environments for officers and eventually support the needs of every inmate. Several reports have also been mentioned in the Sample Disciplinary Procedures. Such reports focus on the best approaches that can be used to present new changes in correctional facilities.

There are several steps required when filing changes within a correctional facility. Such steps usually define the essentials of good reports. The seven essentials of a good report are useful whenever implementing new disciplinary steps. The first step is overview. This step is an executive summary detailing the aspects of the report. The second one is milestones. This step indicates the progress or completion of the project. The budget shows the projected expenditure. The next step details the potential risks. The fifth one includes the targeted issues while the sixth indicates the decisions and actions (Davis & Kam, 2010). This section shows what should be undertaken and implemented. The final step includes contact details. These seven essentials can be used to formulate and propose appropriate disciplinary steps for different facilities. Such steps will be used to propose specific actions and implementations that can deliver better disciplinary actions.

Discussion 5.1: Reporting Systems

The Uniform Crime Reports (UCR) obtains and publishes data and information on crime. The information is usually published by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The program has a number of requirements. The first one is known as the Hierarchy Rule whereby the right channels should be followed throughout the reporting process. The FBI also does not accept different hardcopy submissions. Various data formats for submission are also expected by the FBI. Some of these UCR requirements affect the accuracy of the report (Black, 2014). For example, the Hierarchy Rule discourages more police officers from reporting various crimes. The use of specific data formats makes it hard for many individuals to submit their observations.

The National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) is also used to deliver various criminal reports. This reporting system differs significantly from the UCR. For instance, NIBRS requires law enforcement agents to gather incident-level information about various offenses. Such agencies should ensure the submitted data has specific values and elements. The other requirement is that both qualitative and quantitative data should be presented. The data retained by UCR is usually gathered by police officers. The quality of data gathered is also different. The only similarity is that the information gathered by the two systems focuses on crime in the United States (Cooper, Griesel, & Ternes, 2013). The NIBRS reporting system is preferable because it offers qualitative and quantitative information. The information is also accurate and useful for policy implementation.

The purpose of crime analysis is to study various social and disorder problems affecting different societies. It helps police officers reduce crime and disorder in the society. Crime analysis will therefore equip me with appropriate strategies for studying and monitoring crime (Black, 2014). The approach will make it easier for me to identify new practices and theories that can reduce crime. As well, the knowledge will be useful for continued policy implementation.

Discussion 5.2: Report Writing Software

Report-writing software has become common due to the current use of modern technologies. This software generates accurate and readable reports from a wide range of databases. These systems are advantageous because they make it easier for researchers to gather and analyze data. Large datasets can also be analyzed within the shortest time possible. The analyzed information is human-readable. Researchers can present the data using different tools such as charts. Readers can use the published information for various purposes including policymaking. However, some disadvantages are also associated with this software. The software requires that the users are computer literate (Black, 2014). Such data sets are also vulnerable to phishing and hacking. Researchers and analysts can be biased and deliver inaccurate information. Technology also changes fast thus forcing different data handlers and readers to upgrade their systems.

This software is a resourceful tool for a criminal justice professional. The tool allows the professional to consult various databases in order to make appropriate analyses (Cooper et al., 2013). The information is then arranged and published depending on the targeted outcomes. The analytical process also depends on the targeted reader. I will always use different report writing software to make appropriate observations and inferences. The final report can also be easily published thus making it available to different readers. I will also use the software to examine different reports and publications by other professionals (Hutchinson, Keller, & Reid, 2009). The gathered information will be critical towards making desirable decisions and conclusions. I will also examine the aspects associated with different software applications. The approach will make it easier for me to achieve every career objective.

Discussion 7.1: Modes of Speech

People can use various modes of speech to communicate with their friends, relatives, and workmates. The three modes of speech include impromptu, reading, and memorization. A good example of an impromptu mode of speech is when a specific speaker gives his or her message. Popular speakers do not prepare written speeches. They can use sketch notes to guide them. The best example of the second mode is when a president is giving a speech. Such a speech is usually written by an expert in order to make it meaningful. A good example of memorization is when a student is reading a presentation. It is therefore appropriate for individuals to consider the differences associated with these modes of speech in order to have effective communication (Davis & Kam, 2010). Some people use extemporaneous mode of speech whereby they combine some aspects of the above methods.

My dominant speech mode is impromptu. There are several facts that support this argument. Within the past few years, I have been practicing and communicating with different people in order to improve my skills. I have gained the required experience thus being able to plan and deliver formal presentations. This approach makes me assertive and persuasive whenever communicating with different individuals. I am also focusing on the best approaches and techniques that can improve my communication skills. It is also appropriate to be aware of the speech mode of the individual being interviewed (Davis & Kam, 2010). This knowledge is relevant because it makes it easier for the interviewer to identify the challenges and pitfalls affecting the process. The individual will also be able to respond effectively depending on the targeted outcomes. A proper knowledge of the interviewees mode of speech will make it possible for the interviewer to embrace the best tactics and ask relevant questions.

Discussion 7.2: Distractions

Distractions affect the success of every communication process. For example, cultural and ethnic differences will affect the quality of communication. The surrounding environment can also be a potential source of distraction. The mental capacity of the targeted suspect or interviewee is also something that should be taken seriously. The expertise, background, and profession of the targeted suspect are things that can result in disruptive behaviors. As well, interviewers will definitely see various types of stress in their interviewees. Such interviewers should therefore be aware of specific types of stress such as chronic or acute pain, lack of basic needs, and external pressures (Hoffman, 2005, p. 4). Individuals facing a huge case will also show signs of stress. The interviewer should encourage such an interviewee to communicate using appropriate techniques (Cooper et al., 2013). For example, the interviewer should remain focused and listen attentively. Active participation will make it easier for the targeted individual to remain focused and be part of the processes. The interviewees ability to communicate can be improved by dealing with the stressful situation. Effective communication skills will encourage the targeted individual to talk.

More often than not, an interviewee will demonstrate destructive behavior. The existence of geographical and cultural differences can be difficult to manage. The interviewee might offer specific gestures and behaviors that are hard to analyze. It is also hard to interact successfully with an individual from a different cultural or geographical background (Davis & Kam, 2010). Investigators should therefore examine the behavior of the targeted interviewee carefully. This approach will be used to determine if the reactions are due to manipulative behaviors or cultural differences. The interrogator should be aware of the interviewees cultural background in order to get the required results.

Reference List

Davis, J., & Kam, R. (2010). Report Writing for Criminal Justice Professionals: A Complete Text from English Composition to Interviews and Investigations. San Clemente, CA: Law Tech Publishing Group.

Hoffman, C. (2005).Investigative Interviewing: Strategies and Techniques.Web.

Black, I. (2014). The Art of Investigative Interviewing. New York, NY: Butterworth-Heinemann.

Cooper, B., Griesel, D., & Ternes, M. (2013). Applied Issues in Investigative Interviewing, Eyewitness Memory, and Credibility Assessment. New York, NY: Springer Shop.

Hutchinson, V., Keller, K., & Reid, T. (2009). Inmate Behavior Management: The Key to a Safe and Secure Jail. Web.

Hutchinson, V., Keller, K., & Reid, T. (2009). Inmate Behavior Management: The Key to a Safe and Secure Jail. Web.

The ability of a country to uphold social control, prevent, and extenuate crime depends on the organization of its criminal justice system. For a criminal justice system to achieve its mandate, it must have specific components, which must coordinate to achieve the overall role of reducing crime.

Further, for a criminal justice system to be democratic and fair in achieve justice for all, its members must follow certain processes in executing their duties. The United States criminal justice system primarily applies a systems approach in executing its duties, by using constitutional rules, state, federal, and departmental principles of criminal procedure, the Code of ethics, and bill of rights.

To ensure that the system performs its functions to desired standards, the government controls the criminal justice through three main structures namely the executive, legislative, and judicial. The primary function of the legislature is to define practices considered as crimes, fix sentences for such crimes, and provide monetary assistance to the system. The Judiciary through judges, attorneys, and juries help to make judgments using specific defined rules and principles.

On the other hand, the executive branch is mandated with the role of furnishing the criminal justice system with judges and heads of law-enforcing agencies. Therefore, a criminal justice system is a combination of federal state, and local and public bodies that are interdependent and work together for a common goal (Miller & Gaines, 2008, pp. 3-24).

Components of the Criminal Justice System

Generally, a crime is any act that violates a set of fundamental laws, which govern public practices within a society; whereas, law is system of principles that helps to govern practices in a society. Therefore, laws are there primarily to prevent crime, through ensuring that individuals practices and actions are within certain fundamental rules. Violation of any set rules is prosecutable and punishable in a court of law, as this is the only way of protecting peoples fundamental rights.

To achieve justice for all; prevent and control the rate of crime, the criminal justice system uses three major components, which the government has mandated with different roles, although they are very interdependent. The first component is police departments. The primary roles of this component include ensuring societies maintain law and order, implementing provisions in criminal law, and providing other security needs to the general public.

For police officers to achieve this role, they closely coordinate with community members and security organizations to apprehend criminals. To ensure that suspected criminals and sufferers of crimes get justice, police officers work closely with prosecutors in investigating crimes and gathering enough evidence, for prosecution purposes.

Evidence gathered from investigations acts as the primary basis of operation of the second component of the criminal justice system. The second components (courts) main mandate is to ascertain the criminal responsibility of suspects. Through the use of the juries, judges, prosecutors, and defense lawyers expertise and presentations, courts will either acquit or convict individuals of specific criminal charges.

Depending on a courts verdict, the third component (Corrections) comes into action, if one is found guilty. The most common forms of corrections include parole, house arrests, approves, probation, and a specific jail term that matches with ones crime. The primary role of corrections is to ensure that a criminal justice system rehabilitates criminals, through punishing them (Hewitt & Regoli, 2009, pp. 13-27).

Criminal Justice Process

To ensure that different components of the criminal justice system perform their duties to the desired standards and to avoid chances of laws enforcing agents violating the fundamental rights of those they are serving, the criminal justice process must go through a series of steps.

The first step in the process is investigation. Investigation involves the process of collecting evidence, identifying the suspect, and conducting searchers using the set procedures and rules. If there is evidence of the crime linking the suspect, the second step that involves arresting the criminal comes into action. Arrests are followed by prosecutions in a district court in the presence of attorneys and a prosecutor.

Depending on the facts of a prosecution procedure, in cases of capital offenses, an indictment by a grand jury is a necessity in ascertaining the amount of evidence to warrant a trial. If there is enough evidence, the sitting judge will arraign the suspect in a court of law fro pretrial. Before commencement of the trial proceedings, a defendant has a right of entering a plea, which is usually followed by plea bargaining, where the accused can accept to plead guilty for consideration of a less heavy punishment.

After plea bargaining, the case goes to trial in the presence of a judge or jury, prosecutor, and defense attorneys. Using the prosecutors evidence, the attorneys defense during post trial; the courts can acquit defendants of all the charges or convict them of criminal offenses, which can be in form of jail terms, fines, probation periods, and community service.

If a defendant is not satisfied with the court rulings, they can file appeals in appellate courts. Depending on the court of appeals decision (which can be reversing the case or affirming to the lower courts decision), the case is closed or returned for retrial. If the case goes back for retrial, the lower courts can re-file or drop the case.

In cases where the courts drop the case, the defendant can go free, but if re-filed, depending on the outcomes of the retrial the courts can acquit or convict defendants of the prescribed criminal offenses (National Centre for Victims of Crime, (n.d), pp. 2-4).

Reference List

Hewitt, J. D., & Regoli, M. R. (2009). Exploring criminal justice system. Massachusetts Jones & Bartlett Publishers. Web.

Miller, L. R., Gaines, L. K. (2008). Criminal justice in action: the core. Florence, Kentucky: Wadsworth Publishing. Web.

National Centre for Victims of Crime. (N.D). The Criminal Justice System. Web.

The emergence of English common law in the period of the reign of Henry II had the biggest impact on the development of the criminal justice system in the United States (Jones and Barett 31). It allowed the establishment of a centralized court system with the judges appointed directly by the king. They determined the severity of punishment for the behavior that was deemed illegal thereby creating a body of common law (Jones and Barett 31). Later it began to rely on the doctrine of precedent or stare decisis. This doctrine allowed judges to interpret new cases and apply a law according to previous legal decisions (Jones and Barett 31).

The first settlers brought over the English common law to American shores during the colonial period (University of Cincinnati par. 2). However, it was mainly based on religious principles and was highly informal in its practice, often relying chiefly on oral testimony (Chamelion and Thomas 6). A common law became a part of the American legal code. Gradually, numerous modifications were introduced to it to make it more uniform and standardized so that even average citizens would be cognizant of their duties and responsibilities. Nonetheless, many settlers distrusted the common law system, because they saw in it an oppressive influence of the Catholic Church (IIP Digital par. 7). Consequently, both the states and the federal government developed statuteswritten codes defining crimes and penalties for themthus standardizing and formalizing the law (Jones and Barett 31). In the words of Professor Bibas, criminal justice moved from a common-sense, public moral judgment to a technical, hidden, opaque process. It was no longer about communal expressions of justice and deserved punishment, but about speedy professional triage of threats (Bibas 28). Moreover, criminals no longer were seen as those who had committed a sin against God, but rather they were treated as those who preyed on communal and societal cohesion (Bibas 15).

In the wake of the American Revolution (1775-1783), government size and its powers were substantially diminished. The state legislatures had a close control of courts, preventing the development of independent judiciary and sometimes even abolished some of them over unpopular decisions (IIP Digital par. 8). According to Neubauer, with courts declaring some of the legislative actions unconstitutional and thereby contributing to the conflict between legislative and judicial power& the courts gradually emerged as an independent political institution (Neubauer 93). After Civil War (1861-1865), numerous courts were created to respond to the increasing needs of rapidly growing industrialized areas for resolving complex legal disputes. As a result, new courts such as small claim, juvenile and domestic relations courts emerged (IIP Digital par. 8).

Numerous riots between ethnic, racial, and religious groups led to the creation of a professional police force. Initially, it was not sufficiently disciplined, and officers lacked proper training for the job (Bibas 15). However, at the end of the nineteenth century, police transformed into a highly standardized and professional force (Bibas 15). With the rise of public offenses without a distinct victim, such as violations of alcohol law, there was an increased need for professional prosecutors. Likewise, states formed public defenders offices to ensure that no innocent man may suffer or a guilty man escape (as cited in Bibas 16). At the same time, incarceration as a form of modified corporal punishment seriously changed. Legislators no longer saw devils temptation as a main cause of crime; rather they deemed families and associates of criminals responsible for their wrongdoings. A new penitentiary system was established to isolate offenders from their criminogenic environments and to instill new, law-abiding habits and discipline (Bibas 20).

The creation of the modern criminal justice system was a slow and gradual process of turning English common law into the set of highly efficient agencies we know today.

Works Cited

Bibas, Stephanos. The Machinery of Criminal Justice. New York: Oxford University Press, 2012. Print.

Chamelion, Neil, and Thomas, Andrew. Essentials of Criminal Law. New York: Pearson Education, 2009. Print.

IIP Digital. History and Organization of State Judicial System. 2008. Web.

Neubauer, David. Americas Courts and the Criminal Justice System. Belmont: Wadsworth Publishing, 2006. Print.

Regoli, Robert, John, Hewitt, and Marie, Maras. Exploring Criminal Justice. Burlington: Jones & Bartlett Learning, 2013. Print.

University of Cincinnati. The Evolution of the American Justice System. n.d. Web.

Despite accounting for a small population of the world, the US has the highest number of prisoners globally. This difference results from the harsh laws and ineffectiveness of the criminal justice system. Some states, such as Texas, contribute to the high number of prisoners by implementing a wide range of rules and regulations that promote incarceration. Compared to Norway, Texas has harsher sentencing laws, inhumane prison conditions, and punishes more than it should rehabilitate.

First, Texas has harsher sentencing laws that dictate longer prison sentences for minor crimes than Norway. Texas uses the three-strike law, which increases an individuals minimum sentence if they have a history of felony convictions. Under this law, a person with two or more previous offenses qualifies for an automatic minimum 25-year sentence (Hannaford). This law does not consider the nature of the offenses committed by a defendant. As a result, individuals end up serving life in prison for petty crimes such as stealing a sandwich. Norway, on the other hand, has friendlier sentencing laws for convicts. For example, the maximum sentence in Norway is 30 years and only applies to serious crimes such as some war crimes, crimes against humanity, and genocide. These differences in the sentencing laws lead to Texas having high prison populations, whereas Norways prisons are less populated.

Second, Texas prisons are more inhuman than Norways, which are kindlier. Apart from the strict sentencing laws, Texas has the worst prisons in the US. Despite other states utilizing solitary confinement, numerous elements make Texans stand out from the rest. Notably, whereas prisoners are often held in solitary confinement due to their capital convictions, Texas does not base this practice on crime, security, or discipline (Human Rights Clinic 19). As a result, the number of prisoners under solitary confinement is higher than in other states. Additionally, prisoners in solitary confinement are less likely to access mental health services and contact visits with attorneys and their families, especially those on death row. These conditions differ significantly from Norways, which forbids degrading or inhuman treatment of prisoners. Norwegian prisoners enjoy better conditions, with some of them enjoying luxurious prison rooms with a wide range of services such as grocery shops (Luxs Report). These differences make Norwegian prisons superior to Texas in terms of prisoners living conditions.

Third, the Texan criminal justice system focuses more on punishment, whereas Norway prioritizes rehabilitation. Punishing prisoners entails housing them in the worst possible conditions with minimal efforts to add value to their wellbeing. On the other hand, rehabilitation values changing the behaviors of prisoners to enable them to meet the demands of the outside world. The differences between these two approaches manifest in the recidivism rates of prisoners. According to Hannaford, most ex-inmates in Texas do not survive for long before committing other crimes and ending up in the prison system again. The wellbeing of Texan prisoners deteriorates as they spend more years in prisons, making them unfit for release. However, the Luxs Report shows that Norwegian prisons focus on changing behaviors, including instilling new skills through education. As a result, while Norwegian prisoners leave as better individuals, some Texan inmates end up worse than when they were imprisoned.

In conclusion, Texas prisoners experience tougher sentences, harsher prison conditions and are less likely to rehabilitate than Norwegians are. From the differences between Texas and Norway in approaching matters of the criminal justice system, there is more to change in Texas to become more effective. Texan sentencing laws, prison conditions, and correction approach do more harm than good to its people. Texas and the US should therefore learn from other countries with low prison populations to improve the wellbeing of the entire population.

Works Cited

Hannaford, Alex. Serving Life for Stealing a Sandwich. The Texas Observer, 2020, Web.

Human Rights Clinic. Designed to Break You: Human Rights Violations On Texas Death Row. 2017.

Luxs Report. Luxury Prison in Norway  Serving Time with Amenities. YouTube, 2014.