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Alcohol Availability and Crime, 2008.
An examination of three research articles on the link between alcohol availability and crime.
1,563 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 51.95
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Abstract
This paper examines three research articles pertaining to the topic of alcohol availability and crime, namely "Ecological Models of Alcohol Outlets and Violent Assaults: Crime Potentials and Geospatial Analysis" by Gruenewald, et al , "Is the Physical Availability of Alcohol and Illicit Drugs Related to Neighborhood Rates of Child Maltreatment?" by Freisthler, et al and "Drug "Hot Spots", Alcohol Availability and Violence" by Gorman et al. The paper discusses the research question, data strategy and results of each and analyzes Gorman's article in order to show that this article is the most valid and credible piece. The criteria used to evaluate the three research articles is included as an appendix to the paper.
From the Paper
"The link between alcohol availability and crime has been studied for several years across a multitude of variables and using a number of different data collection and analysis techniques. Since socio-economic status, head of household, age, and neighborhood information can all affect the crime rates of a given area, researchers must account for all other variables before examining the results of their particular study. Further, the design, sampling, population, data analysis techniques, and overall methods must support a sound, valid, ethical, and overall reliable experiment in order to be truly credible."
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Gendered Criminology Theory, 2008.
An examination of the theories of crime and gender put forward in the article, "Gender and Crime: Toward a Gendered
Theory of Female Offending," written by Emilie Steffensmeier.
1,151 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 1 source, APA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
This paper examines gendered criminology theory. It specifically analyzes the article, "Gender and Crime: Toward a Gendered
Theory of Female Offending," written by Emilie Steffensmeier. The paper discusses the content of the article and looks at the author's views and arguments related to theories of crime that take into account female and gender difference.
From the Paper
"Possibly the most significant of the key components is the focus on contextually. This aspect has been largely ignored by other theoretical approaches. The study is also significant in the incorporation into its theoretical framework of gender roles and stereotypes in the explanation of crime. For example, the significance and utility of the gendered perspective as advocated by this theory can be seen it its ability to explain why the reportage of female crime is highest in the category of minor offences, such as shoplifting ands passing bad checks. This aspect is seen against the tendency for women to focus on relationship aspects and protection of their families, whereas these crimes in a male context are largely the result of status protection. It is felt that this gendered theory holds a great degree of promise for future exploratory understanding of this complex issue"
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Criminal Justice Organizations, 2008.
This paper determines the impact of occupational socialization and political power abuse on the criminal justice sector.
1,448 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
The paper examines how the police force, courts and corrections are influenced by occupational socialization and their power and political behavior. The paper shows how the high level of occupational socialization tends to corrupt the police department while its affiliation with often indiscrete political officials results in corruption of the court system. The paper brings evidence from the events following the 9/11 attacks on the United States and maintains that more than loyalty and leadership will be needed to find an accurate balance between power, politics, loyalty and socialization within criminal justice systems.
From the Paper
"Occupational socialization refers to the extent to which professionals within a certain sector and/or workplace connect and socialize with each other. A high level of socialization may for example lead to a high level of loyalty within the organization, whereas a low level of socialization may lead to a higher level of individual creativity and contribution. Socialization is integrated not only with the type of organization in question, but also with the organizational culture involved. In terms of criminal justice, occupational socialization plays a particularly complex role in the police force."
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Problem-Oriented Policing, 2008.
An examination of two articles - "Gangs" and "School Safety" from the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) website and their views on problem-oriented policing.
1,209 words (approx. 4.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper introduces and analyzes the topic of problem-oriented policing. Specifically, it discusses two articles from the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS) website and describe the approaches these articles use to address crime problems. The articles are entitled "Gangs" and "School Safety."
From the Paper
"School violence is much more than gang activity today, it can also come from outside the school in the form of vagrants, parents, and even strangers who are looking to kidnap or harm students, or even students themselves, who go on violent rampages and kill faculty and other students. While these activities are much harder to predict, there may be many indicators that are being overlooked in this area as well, and so, law enforcement agencies must educate parents, educators, and those who deal with students, from bus drivers to counselors and even school security guards, to be on the lookout for any unusual or potentially dangerous activities. If the same indicators can be identified for this type of violence, then there may someday be a way to target schools that might pose a higher threat for other type of safety issues, such as gun violence and child abduction, and this will ultimately lead to safer schools and safer students."
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Lobbyists and White Collar Crime, 2008.
This paper discusses white collar crime, specifically in the case of
lobbyists and their politician allies.
1,948 words (approx. 7.8 pages), 6 sources, APA, $ 62.95
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Abstract
The paper describes the white collar crimes of lobbyist, Jack Abramoff, former House of Representatives majority leader, Tom DeLay and California Congressman, Duke Cunningham. The paper paints a picture of how lobbyists act essentially as brokers between corrupt businesspeople and interest groups, and between the politicians who can make those persons still richer and more powerful. The paper therefore shows how lobbyists and their politician allies are true white collar criminals, bending the law in non-violent ways to serve their own selfish ends.
From the Paper
"Crime is not always violent or obvious; rather it often lurks beneath the surface of respectable activities and individuals. White Collar Crime is one of the most pressing problems in today's society, particularly within the realm of politics. Lobbyists and their allies frequently employ underhanded methods to gain influence and enrich themselves. American taxpayers are bilked out of millions of dollars and subjected to crooked policies, all at the behest of clever operatives who claim to work for the public good."
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The French Justice System, 2008.
A look at the justice system in France.
2,717 words (approx. 10.9 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 81.95
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Abstract
The paper offers both an overview of France's geography and political structure and a profile of the economic, social, political and economic situation. The paper briefly looks at the nature and extent of France's crime situation and then examines the French justice system; the legal tradition of France, the police forces and the court system. Finally, the paper discusses justice relations between France and the US.
Outline:
France: An Introduction
Present Crime Situation
The Justice System
France and the United States: Justice Relations
From the Paper
"Republique Francaise (French Republic) is the official designation of the French nation, whose history and culture is known the world over. France as most people know it is a country that produces excellent wines and cheeses, has a language that belongs to the romantic languages, and whose capital city - Paris - is known as the city of lights and have been written about as one of the most quixotic and passionate cities in the world. Although ultimately a victor in World Wars I and II, France suffered extensive losses in its empire, wealth, manpower, and rank as a dominant nation-state."
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Consequentialism as a Moral Theory, 2008.
An analysis and discussion of the objections to consequentialism and whether they render the theory unsuitable as a guide to criminal justice practice.
3,851 words (approx. 15.4 pages), 15 sources, APA, $ 105.95
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Abstract
The paper provides an overview of consequentialism and outlines the central objections to this philosophical and theoretical stance in the context of criminal justice practice. The paper analyzes the extent to which this moral philosophical perspective is relevant to modern criminal jurisprudence. The paper presents the position that while this theory is limited, it also serves some important legalistic purposes and therefore this theory should be integrated with other philosophical points of view.
Outline:
Introduction
Overview of the Philosophy of Consequentialism
Objections to the Theory of Consequentialism
Consequentialism and Criminal Justice
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Substantive moral theories in modern philosophical discourse typically fall into the categories of consequentialist or deontological. Consequentialist theories, which derives from the ethos of utilitarianism, state that, "...agents must always act so as to produce the best available outcomes overall" (Scheffler S. review). In contrast to this position, deontological moral theories stress that the best overall outcomes are not of primacy significance. In the context of modern philosophical and moral theory, it is generally acknowledged that the consequentialist view is inadequate in terms of a comprehensive and inclusive moral theory."
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The Death Penalty, 2008.
This paper argues in favor of the death penalty, using the article "Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished?" "No." by Ernest van den Haag.
1,700 words (approx. 6.8 pages), 2 sources, MLA, $ 55.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer introduces and analyzes the topic of the death penalty in America. Specifically, the writer discusses why the death penalty should not be abolished, making use of the article "Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished?" "No." by Ernest van den Haag. The writer argues that the death penalty can help deter crime, and since it is used for the most heinous of crimes, it sends a clear message to criminals that murder will not be tolerated in society. The writer concludes that the death penalty should not be abolished because it is a valid form of punishment in an increasingly violent society.
From the Paper
"There are many societies that punish crime by a like punishment, for example, in many Arab countries a thief is punished by losing a hand. Some people compare this to the death penalty, and maintain it is cruel and unusual because it perpetuates that "eye for an eye" type of punishment. However, some crimes are simply so heinous and violent that no other type of punishment seems valid. A person who violently murders an entire family, or a child, or a pregnant mother deserves to pay the ultimate price for their crimes. They took a life, and they should pay with their life, because it seems to be the only way to truly punish them for their deeds. A good example is Timothy McVeigh, who was convicted of the Oklahoma City Federal Building bombing. He killed over 160 innocent adults and children, and received the death penalty for his crime. In addition, he did not fight or appeal the penalty, and was eventually executed for the crime."
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Genetic Testing, 2008.
This paper discusses genetic testing in forensic, predictive and carrier testing.
1,147 words (approx. 4.6 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 39.95
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Abstract
The paper defines genetic testing, looks at the screening and testing techniques and examines guidelines for genetic testing. The paper discusses mitochondrial DNA sequencing and describes what is involved in forensic identification via genetic testing.
Outline:
Introduction
Genetic Testing Defined
Use of Genetic Screening
Guidelines for Genetic Testing
Mitochondrial DNA Sequencing
Forensics Genetic testing
Summary and Conclusion
From the Paper
"Genetic testing is also referred to as 'gene testing' and 'DNA tests' and is a process by which the individual's DNA is examined. DNA is the material which genes are composed of which serve to determine the specific characteristics of living things. DNA determines the individual's features and as well, genetic testing has the capacity to detect particular genes in terms of whether they are present, absent, or altered and specifically in detection of chromosome abnormalities through laboratory testing."
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Arson, 2008.
An in-depth look at arsonists and their motivations for this crime.
2,556 words (approx. 10.2 pages), 13 sources, MLA, $ 77.95
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Abstract
The paper defines arson and explores the reasons or motives behind this destructive crime. The paper talks about pyromaniacs whose motivations are often simply the thrill of the fire. The paper also considers the increase in juvenile crime related arson and discusses how this may stem from a traumatic childhood. The paper then looks at how fire investigators determine whether arson was the cause of a fire.
From the Paper
"Over thirty thousand structural fires are set annually at a cost of over three-quarters of a million dollars worth of damage and more than three hundred lives lost. Additionally over twenty thousand intentionally set vehicular fires occur causing more than one hundred thirty million dollars in damages and an additional two hundred lives lost. Arson is responsible for twenty five percent of all fires and is the second leading cause of all residential fire related deaths."
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Serial Killers, 2008.
An analysis of serial killers as addicts and what we can learn about their nature if we perceive them in this way.
2,439 words (approx. 9.8 pages), 11 sources, MLA, $ 74.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the nature of a serial killer. It specifically looks at whether serial killing can be considered to be an addiction and if we can learn more about a serial killer by perceiving it as an addiction. The paper describes the major types of serial killers and discusses the nature of addiction. The paper finally questions if being a serial killer is an addiction, if there are possible interventions to help him or her with this malady.
From the Paper
"While rare, this gender bias in serial killers is occasionally bypassed. Often falling into their own separate category, female serial killers are more often than not associated with therapeutic settings in hospitals or nursing homes. These are nurturing settings that also allow them to be in complete control over a patient, usually an elderly or terminally ill patient, but not necessarily so. Although not officially categorized as such, they are referred to as the lethal caretakers, or more sensationally as the Angels of Death. "This contemporary Angel of Death embodies an especially pernicious darkness in our humanity by systemically attacking the weak and defenseless who have been involuntarily placed into her care or must rely on her for comfort and support" (Kelleher, and Kelleher 60). Aileen Wuornos is perhaps one of the most famous and atypical examples of a female serial killer. Although debatable, she actually falls under the genre of Hedonistic Gain Killer; killing truck drivers and other motorists for their money and their cars (Jenkins)."
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Increase in Youth Violence, 2008.
This paper looks at the disturbing trend of youth violence committed against the homeless.
1,035 words (approx. 4.1 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 36.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that on January 13, 2007, thousands of television viewers watched a late night news program in horror as two teenagers were shown beating a homeless man to death with baseball bats. The incident, caught on surveillance camera in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, was the newest episode in a national trend of youth violence committed against the homeless. The writer maintains that by all appearances, the main cause of the Fort Lauderdale incident - and other nearly identical incidents - is boredom and an aggressive personality. Contributory factors include presumptions about the homeless, peer pressure, and a prevailing national culture of violence. This paper is designed to reveal these factors in greater depth and to shed some light on how their coincidence can bring a seemingly harmless adolescent to commit murder.
From the Paper
"In all the recent cases of children assaulting or murdering a homeless person, the children's uninformed views and narrow understanding of homelessness facilitated their callous actions. As described by Michael Stoops, acting executive director of the National Coalition for the Homeless, these are crimes of opportunity, crimes that likely would not have been committed if certain conditions didn't coincide, one significant condition being the identification of the victim as homeless. In many of the recent cases of youth violence against the homeless, the perpetrators later admitted during interrogations that they chose the particular victim because he or she was homeless. In this sense, the crime is similar to crimes we traditionally associate with hate, such as those perpetrated against gays or minorities. Criminologist Brian Levine says that homeless individuals are the new vogue targets. Children choose the homeless because they assume they are vulnerable to attack and unable to harm their attackers in response. Because the homeless are a scorned population, children think that they can get away with these attacks."
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Prison-Based Drug Addiction Treatment, 2008.
This paper argues against increasing funding for prison-based drug addiction treatment.
1,635 words (approx. 6.5 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 53.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that there is an ongoing debate in the United States concerning the most effective and most appropriate treatment for those convicted of drug offenses in that it is the belief of some that funding should be increased for treating drug addiction in prisons. However, the writer points out that the opposing argument holds that this is not the most appropriate manner of addressing drug addiction. The writer demonstrates that the costs of prison drug- addiction treatment, in monetary terms and in terms of the cost borne by society-at-large far exceed the benefits of prison-based drug-addiction treatment programs. The writer concludes that the research has broadened the knowledge held concerning this issue and has moved the researcher toward more emphatic, confident and further support of alternative sentencing for drug offenders versus incarceration.
Outline:
Overview
Arguments and Evidence in Support
Critical Analysis of Protest against Prison-Based Treatment
Strongest Point Against
Weakest Point
Critical Analysis of Opposing Group's Position
Strongest Point
Weakest Point
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The strongest point against prison-based treatment is the interruption of working, productive individuals, father and mothers, in fulfilling their daily responsibilities to their families, their employers and society-at-large, specifically when drug court or other treatment programs are readily available to assist these individuals in becoming drug-free. Drug court and other treatment programs have been found to be more effective, less costly, and more effective in the long-term than imprisonment for drug offenses. Since nearly 1/2 of drug offenders are employed full-time according to the literature in the foregoing review and many of these individuals do have children or are neighbors who care for children and positively contribute to society, imprisonment at a higher cost in monetary terms in addition to the other costs to society make prison sentences for drug offenses ludicrous placing a very large question mark above the 'intentions' of laws and policies that mandate prison sentences for drug offenses. Furthermore, privatization of prisons in the United States has turned prisons into a competitive business with quotas of prisoners needed to fill the capacity of these prisons so that prisons will receive funding for the prisoner's incarcerated to ensure their profits and incoming funds. "
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Critique on Policing, 2008.
A discussion of the effect of new legislation on the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
931 words (approx. 3.7 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses whether new and tougher criminal laws in Canada are realistic, given that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) has shown resistance in the past to new ideas and new policing methods. The writer describes intelligence-led policing, which the RCMP began to implement in 2000 and which requires considerable interaction between officers and the community, and suggests that the RCMP's military guidelines are outmoded and do not yield the best results in community policing models. The writer also discusses problems with enforcing the new laws, including mandatory sentencing, and concludes that although the public may tougher legislation for criminal offenses, it may not be practical for several reasons.
From the Paper
"These policies directly affect policing in Canada because they will create the need for more police officers to enforce the laws and more prisons to help carry out sentences. More courts could be required, as well, to handle the bail reform and sentencing requirements. In addition, more court and prison related personnel would also be required if these laws create as many new felons as they seem to suggest. One has to wonder where all these personnel will come from, and if the criminal justice system can grow to accommodate everyone that might fall under these guidelines."
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Gun Control, 2008.
Presents the argument that in the 21st century, the US legislature should make the ability to bear arms a privilege instead of a right.
4,642 words (approx. 18.6 pages), 7 sources, MLA, $ 120.95
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Abstract
This paper makes the argument that the time has come for the US legislature to do away with anachronistic laws that support a dubious "gun culture", which is an aberration in a modern, developed society, and that the ability to bear arms should be a privilege instead of a right in the 21st century. The paper begins by tracing the origins of the "gun culture" in America and then presents the history and interpretation of the Second Amendment, which supposedly gives the right of bearing arms to the citizens. Next, the paper reviews both sides of the argument for and against gun control, and then presents arguments in favor of making laws that would make the bearing of arms in the 21st century a privilege instead of a right.
Outline:
Origins of the American "Gun Culture"
The Second Amendment, its Background and Interpretation
Supreme Court's Interpretation of the Second Amendment
Does the Proliferation of Guns Promote Crime and Violence?
The Economic Cost of Gun Violence
Public Opinion about Gun Control
Reasons Why More Stringent Gun-Control Measures are Still not in Place?
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The Articles of Confederation, drafted and formulated during the Revolution, was America's first Constitution. The document, too, reflected the authors' suspicion of standing armies and a strong central government. The Articles severely restricted the powers of the Congress and gave maximum autonomy to the States. The responsibility of national defense was placed on the State militias instead of a national army and the Congress could not exercise any military powers unless 9 of the 13 States consented. Article VI specifically stated: "every state shall always keep up a well regulated and disciplined militia, sufficiently armed and accoutred." Before long, however, the founding fathers realized that the Articles were unworkable for running of an effective government because of the extremely limited powers granted to the central government. The fighting abilities of a volunteer militia as compared to a disciplined, professional army had already been exposed during the Revolution, and even George Washington had expressed his reservations about their effectiveness in private despite his public pronouncements in support of the citizen militia . "
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Economic Effects of Crime in the U.S., 2008.
This paper looks at the economic effects of criminal activity in the United States.
769 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 27.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the direct and indirect costs of criminal activity. The paper first explains that the direct economic impacts of criminal activity are those born by its victims, represented by the material value of stolen property, and the cost of repairing the physical
damage or destruction of property caused by the methods used to effectuate the crime. The paper then explains that the indirect economic impacts of criminal activity are those born by private
entities, necessary to prevent and insure against crime, as well as the those born by society collectively, to prevent and deter criminal activity, and to apprehend, prosecute, and incarcerate criminal perpetrators. Next, the paper takes a closer look at specific types of criminal activity and economic effects on society. The paper discusses that criminal enterprises and conduct vary substantially, ranging from low-level, "street" crimes against persons, primarily for the tangible property in their possession, to sophisticated, "white collar" crimes perpetrated against large corporations or even against entire industries.
Outline:
Introduction
Street Crime and Property Crime
White Collar Crime, Organized Crime, and Abuse of Public Assistance Programs
Computer Crime and Identity Theft
From the Paper
"White collar crime encompasses a wide variety of fraud and related criminal enterprises perpetrated against individuals as well as against corporations. It includes banking and investment fraud, insurance and mortgage fraud, corporate and public corruption, money laundering, as well as the abuse of public assistance and medical care funding programs.
"In total, it is impossible to quantify the precise economic costs of white collar crime, but it is certainly in the hundreds of billions of dollars, representing direct monetary losses as well as the cost of developing, implementing and maintaining security programs and procedures to prevent future and recurrent crimes of this nature."
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Violence in Film, 2008.
This paper discusses the issue of violence in film, concentrating on the film "Pulp Fiction" directed by Quentin Tarantino.
1,459 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 4 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
In this article, the writer notes that to some members of the modern audience, the film 'Pulp Fiction' represents the worst aspects of modern culture and that the critical acclaim it received for its unabashed embrace of violence has led to an increasing amount of violence in films, up to and including the modern horror porn. The writer points out that others argue that the violence in 'Pulp Fiction', while disturbingly real, absolutely excessive, and not representative of daily life, serves a very important purpose. The writer maintains that rather than detracting from the plot, the violence in 'Pulp Fiction' is an essential part of the plot; without which, the movie simply would not exist. The writer concludes that by humanizing the character Marcellus, Tarantino makes a cogent argument for the fact that, as a society, Americans have dehumanized and marginalized a huge segment of people, simply because of their criminal behavior, and that this dehumanization is morally wrong.
From the Paper
"Like the other characters in the story, Butch's livelihood depends on violence. However, while Butch's life may have been violent, which is a prerequisite for a professional fighter, the film makes it clear that Butch has not previously been engaged in the type of criminal activity as the story's other leading characters. Therefore, when the audience is introduced to Butch, they see a washed-up has been who is willing to take a dive for money, but who is not entirely comfortable with having made that decision. What the audience does not know is that Butch has not actually decided to throw the fight, but is actually making his own plans to score big on the fight and escape with the money. Somehow knowing that Butch intends to cheat Marcellus, a crime boss, makes Butch seem virtuous in comparison. In addition, there is something underneath Butch's complacent and dopey exterior, and Tarantino uses violence to show the real Butch, who is actually a proud man with a lot of honor, even if his views of what is honorable do not coincide with society's views."
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Motorcycle Clubs, 2008.
This paper looks at the real situation of motorcycle clubs today.
740 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 26.95
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Abstract
The paper outlines the background and history of motorcycle clubs and looks at these clubs today. The paper relates that most clubs are law abiding and enjoy good relations with their local communities.
Outline:
Background and History
Modern Motorcycle Clubs
Positive Community Relations
Conclusion
From the Paper
"After the end of World War II in 1945, hundreds of thousands of American GIs began the process of re-assimilating into American society after an absence of up to four years in many cases. Initially, their resources were limited and some of the most economical private motorized transportation choices were surplus military equipment, including first issue Jeeps and motorcycles, particularly Harley Davidsons used as staff vehicles during the war."
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The FBI and Witness Protection, 2008.
An examination of the witness protection program of the FBI and how it is decided who will be given protection or immunity.
4,756 words (approx. 19.0 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 122.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the various roles of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). It specifically focuses on the FBI witness protection program. The paper discusses some previous cases and then looks at how the FBI decides who is given immunity and protection and whether these decisions are being made properly or even should be made at all.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Witness Protection
The Witness Protection Program
Analysis
From the Paper
"Some people in the program itself have also raised complaints, stating that the government has not lived up to its agreement in some way or that the program itself is no longer needed in an era when the formerly powerful mob is no longer powerful: "Omerta, the mob law of silence, is long dead. With so many informants, targeting just one is pointless" (McShane, 2000, p. A1). The criminality of people like Sammy Gravano even while in the program has also been a point of contention, raising the question of how much the program is protecting questionable witnesses and not the public. The public questions the way the FBI and others decide whom to protect when people hear about cases like that of Boston mob hit man Joseph Barboza, who was aided by the FBI in 1971 to get him off of death row in California so he would not recant in a 1965 Massachusetts case that sent four innocent men to prison. He was aided when two FBI agents testified on his behalf. This has been deemed a cover-up that lasted more than thirty years. Two of the men wrongly sentenced died while in prison, while the other two were released after serving more than thirty years. The cover-p was discovered when the files of the two FBI agents who participated "revealed Barboza lied to the jury when he accused the four men of playing roles in the murder of the amateur boxer who offended Mob bosses" (Lawrence 2001, para. 13). Evidence has also been offered to show that Barboza killed several people while in the Witness Protection Program. Barboza himself was killed by a hitman in 1976."
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