There are long-standing racial disparities in the sanctions imposed on drug offenders in the United States. However, the policies and practices pursued under the war on drugs of the 1980s greatly exacerbated these disparities and the punitiveness of drug sanctions generally. These racial disparities do not appear to be attributable to racial differences in the
This article examines the pervasive issue of disparities in sentencing and punishment within the United States criminal justice system. Beginning with an exploration of historical contexts, the discussion delves into the enduring impact of historical racial and socio-economic influences on sentencing policies. Analyzing demographic, legal, and extralegal factors, the article investigates the complex interplay that
This article delves into the intricate dimensions of sentencing ethics and fairness within the context of the United States criminal justice process. The introduction establishes the pivotal role of sentencing, emphasizing the ethical considerations and overarching principles of fairness that shape this critical stage. The first section explores the foundations of sentencing ethics, navigating the
Two contrasting images of the public have emerged from the literature on public attitudes toward sentencing and incarceration: a punitive public that demands long prison terms and a merciful public that supports community-based sanctions after considering the seriousness of the offense and the perceived character and blameworthiness of the offender. Although politicians and the media
The sentencing decision is typically the last court decision made in a case. This decision has attracted the most attention from researchers studying legal decision making. After being convicted of a crime, a defendant may be sentenced to, for example, imprisonment, a community penalty, fine, restitution or compensation, or probation. A sentence may have one
Sentencing diversion programs are formal, institutionalized programs for people with mental illness that were created to reduce the volume of and frequency with which this population is involved in the criminal justice system as defendants. Their primary purpose is to divert persons with mental illness (PMIs) from the criminal justice system (including jail and prison)