Section Overview
In this section, we embarked on a comprehensive exploration of the criminal justice system, unraveling its structure and functions. We examined the three main pillars of law enforcement, courts, and corrections, recognizing their critical roles in maintaining societal order and justice. The functions of the system were dissected, encompassing crime prevention, investigation, enforcement, adjudication, retribution, rehabilitation, deterrence, and public safety. We embarked on a step-by-step journey through a typical criminal case, witnessing the arrest, prosecution, indictment, plea bargaining, trial, and sentencing processes. The section delved into crime statistics, types of crime, data collection methods, and the interpretation of crime trends. We confronted the issues and controversies in the criminal justice system, addressing racial and socioeconomic disparities, overincarceration, police misconduct, and the death penalty. Amidst the challenges, we explored potential reforms, restorative justice, alternatives to incarceration, and the role of technology. This voyage reminded us of the ongoing importance and evolving nature of the criminal justice system, inviting us to continue seeking a better understanding of its complexities.
Reading Assignment for Section 5.4
Read the following subsection from our online textbook: Section 5.4: Criminal Justice.
What You Will Learn
In this section, you’ll learn about the structure and functions of the three main pillars of the criminal justice system: law enforcement, courts, and corrections. You’ll follow the step-by-step processes involved in a typical criminal case, from arrest to sentencing and potential appeals. Additionally, you’ll explore crime statistics, including data collection methods and the interpretation of crime trends, both nationally and internationally.
Student Learning Outcomes for Section 5.4
- SLO 1: Describe the structure and functions of the three main pillars of the criminal justice system: law enforcement, courts, and corrections.
- SLO 2: Explain the step-by-step processes involved in a typical criminal case, from arrest to sentencing and potential appeals.
- SLO 3: Analyze crime statistics, including data collection methods and the interpretation of crime trends, both nationally and internationally.
- SLO 4: Evaluate the issues and controversies within the criminal justice system, such as racial and socioeconomic disparities, overincarceration, police misconduct, and the death penalty.
- SLO 5: Examine potential reforms and future directions in the criminal justice system, including concepts like restorative justice, alternatives to incarceration, and the impact of technology.
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Modification History File Created: 05/07/2023 Last Modified: 06/26/2023
This work is licensed under an Open Educational Resource-Quality Master Source (OER-QMS) License.
