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Taser Deaths: Taser is Not to Blame, 2008.
An examination of abuse of proper use of the Taser.
1,460 words (approx. 5.8 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
This paper describes the electronic defense weapon known as the Taser and how it works. The writer explains the guidelines prepared by the International Association of Police for recommended Taser use, which also include recommendations for educating the community about Taser technology and its use as an alternative to deadly force. The paper relates that, in the absence of specific legislation on Taser policy, Taser use currently depends on the individual agency. The paper then discusses a case where use of the Taser was abused. The author concludes that Taser death is, in the majority of cases, not the cause of death, but instead may be blamed upon the officer with the Taser or the department that has failed to train its police force in the proper use of the Taser. This paper includes a figure.
Outline:
Background
Departmental Safety Precautions
Appropriate and Inappropriate Use of Tasers
Operational Procedures for Taser Use
Education of Public About Taser Deaths
Safety of Taser Use in Case Study Reports
Summary and Conclusion
From the Paper
"The OLR Research Report relates operational procedures to include that officers should: (1) Issue warnings before activating an electronic defense weapon (unless doing so would endanger another person); (2) When applicable, alert other officers at an incident scene of their intent to activate a weapon; (3) Use brightly colored weapons (e. g. , yellow) thereby reducing the risk of escalating force and decreasing the possibility that a secondary unit mistakes the weapon for a firearm; (4) Carry the weapon on their weak support side to avoid accidentally drawing or firing their sidearm; (5) Set their weapons in the "probe mode" as the primary option, and use "stun mode" as a secondary option; and (6) Use the weapon for one standard cycle and stop to evaluate the situation."
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Crime Statistics, 2008.
A crime-rate comparison between Tucson, Arizona, Denver, Colorado, Palm Beach County, Florida; Charlotte-Mecklenburg, North Carolina and Austin, Texas.
1,183 words (approx. 4.7 pages), 10 sources, MLA, $ 40.95
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Abstract
This paper selects five cities for a crime-rate comparison: Tucson, Arizona; Denver, Colorado; Palm Beach County, Florida; Charlotte-Mecklenburg, North Carolina; and Austin, Texas. Through an examination of the police websites of these cities, it discusses how, of those cities, Charlotte-Mecklenburg has a much greater incidence of violent crime than the other cities, while Tucson has a greater incidence of property crime than the other cities. It also looks at how Denver's property crime rate is the lowest, while the property crime rate in Denver and Palm Beach County was lower than the other cities, depending on the year. Additionally, the paper looks at how the violent crime rate appears relatively steady in the cities, though Denver saw a tremendous increase in violent crime in the year 2004.
From the Paper
"The website for the Tucson Police Department contains information on services, employment, crime statistics, and the Most Wanted. It also provides the user with the ability to search the site in a variety of methods. These search methods reveals general statistics, but can also be used to access full incident reports. The website reveals that the Tucson Police Department does utilize crime analysis units. Furthermore, the website shows some of the Tucson crime maps, which reveals that the Tucson Police Department does utilize crime maps. Those maps include: violent crime, property crime, burglary, auto theft, narcotics, domestic violence, and criminal damage. (Tucson Police Department). Compared to the other cities investigated, Tucson had an unusually high property crime rate. However, it is important to note that crime rates are impacted by a variety of factors, including crime-reduction efforts by police and victims, which make it more likely those individual criminal incidents will be reported, causing an apparent increase in the crime rates. "
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Abscam, 2008.
An overview of the FBI Abscam investigation with a focus on Congressman John Murtha's involvement.
2,341 words (approx. 9.4 pages), 11 sources, APA, $ 72.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how, from 1978-1980, the Federal Bureau of Investigations conducted a sting operation known as Abscam, which resulted in the criminal convictions of politicians in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, as well as a Senator and six members of the House. The paper contends that Abscam was one of the ugliest chapters in modern political history, destroying the careers and reputations of political figures at the local, state and federal levels. In particular, the paper looks at how one political figure who managed to emerge from the scandal relatively unscathed is John Murtha, who is now one of the longest-serving members of Congress. The paper also discusses how historians, political scientists, social commentators and criminologists have long debated whether Murtha should have been more aggressively pursued by the House and by the federal Justice Department.
Outline:
Murtha's Role in Abscam
House Ethics
Criminal Laws Broken?
Conclusion
From the Paper
"From Murtha's perspective, he was exonerated. He has long declared his innocence, rightly pointing out that he never accepted a bribe during the meeting (Hannity and Colmes, 2006). Washington Post reporter Jack Anderson, who covered Abscam for the paper, offers a back-handed defense of Murtha, saying he played "perhaps the saddest scene on the secret Abscam videotapes. ... He refused to take the money, but his reason was hardly noble (Murtha: 'I expect,' 2006)." Indeed, one could argue that Murtha's reasons did not have to be noble. In the end, he did not take a bribe and arguably did not deserve to be as aggressively prosecuted as his colleagues, who accepted money."
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Abu Ghraib, 2008.
A discussion on the abuse at Abu Ghraib in light of the Stanford Prison Experiment.
752 words (approx. 3.0 pages), 3 sources, MLA, $ 26.95
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Abstract
This paper compares the prisoner abuse at Abu Ghraib to that seen in Philip Zimbardo's landmark psychological experiment into group behavior and the effects of differential power. The paper relates that Zimbardo's experiment demonstrated that even ordinary citizens without any previous history or known predisposition toward violence or abusive behavior have the potential to become cruelly abusive under circumstances that combine authority, unsupervised autonomy, and authoritative control over others. The paper then looks at how, in many ways, the real-life abuses at Abu Ghraib paralleled Zimbardo's previous observations of human behavior during his 1971 experiment at Stanford.
From the Paper
"The degree of abuse at Abu Ghraib was much worse than observed in the 1971 Stanford experiment, even after factoring in the fundamental differences between real life situations and controlled experiment. If anything, the fact that ordinary civilian students proved capable of such conduct on other civilians, even without the psychological stresses of a wartime combat zone and genuinely hostile prisoners, suggests that the risk of similar abuse in genuine wartime situations is much higher. "
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The Criminal Justice System, 2008.
Looks at the application of human resource management (HRM) to the criminal justice system.
1,230 words (approx. 4.9 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 41.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that the utilization of private business standards, such as human resource management (HRM), in traditional hierarchical public systems can improve greatly communication, job design, leadership and supervision. The author points out that the development of HRM, which elicits the improvement of technology utilization within the field, is not only a matter of employee expectations but also is demanded by the community to improve the ability to protect and serve the public. The paper stresses that HRM will likely be one of the strongest tools of change in the field of corrections especially in the area of training new and old team members to improve their function and motivation.
From the Paper
"Institutions are increasingly utilizing job analysis as a guide to develop reasonable expectations for job roles, as well as to designate the system of communications and keep individuals motivated to do the work they do, based on a better understanding of its roles. A better understanding of the role one plays, will always improve his or her ability to do the job to the standards it needs done. The powerful tools of the private business community, in the form of tried and true methods of human resource management will likely benefit those who are under the watchful eye of the law they seek to enforce, at all times."
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The Social Control of Girls, 2008.
A look at the history of repressing female sexuality through the incarceration and rehabilitation of women.
942 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 5 sources, APA, $ 33.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses how policing female sexuality in the guise of rehabilitating fallen women and punishing female criminals has been virtually synonymous since the birth of the institution of the prison. It looks at how attitudes have not really changed since the 19th century and how, even today, women are still punished harshly for transgressing the stereotype of how women should behave.
From the Paper
"If these 19th century examples of institutional control of young women seem extreme or too far removed from our own era, consider that in 1950s and 1960s America, many unmarried young women who became pregnant were sent away to reformatories or religious schools when their pregnancy became visible. Torn away from their families, often unable to graduate high school, they were penalized for sexual activity and made examples of for other girls, while the fathers of the children were not. The young women were often not allowed to decide if they wanted to keep their children. It was assumed that having made a 'wrong' decision, that they should abdicate all social control over their own bodies to their elders, including their parents and the people who ran these houses (Fessler 2006). "
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Analyzing Crime, 2008.
An overview on the importance and significance of analyzing crime.
1,467 words (approx. 5.9 pages), 5 sources, MLA, $ 48.95
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Abstract
The paper notes that the analysis and intelligence of crime is essential in the reduction of criminal activity. The paper also discusses the role that theory and sociological methodologies play in the analysis of crime. The paper concludes by noting that crime analysis is reliant on information and intelligence which enables the law enforcement authorities to conduct a comprehensive crime combating program. The paper adds that understanding the social and culture milieu or context from which crime develops can be an essential tool in dealing with various types of crimes.
Outline:
Introduction
The Importance of the Analysis of Crime
The Analysis of Crime and Sociological Theory
Conclusion
From the Paper
"On the other hand, a very different sociological and criminological theory is Labeling Theory. From this theoretical perspective, crime and the criminal are seen as being determined by social class and other circumstantial and situational factors. In this theory, the view that the criminal is a rational person who is solely responsible fore his or her actions is not subscribed to. Instead, the view is suggested that crime is caused by societal and cultural factors and influences; which are aspect that are essentially out of the control of the individual. This theoretical emphasis therefore stresses that the criminal is not an evil person "
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Plea Bargaining, 2008.
A research proposal to explore public opinion and perceptions as they relate to plea bargaining in the criminal justice system.
1,497 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 12 sources, APA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
The paper presents the hypothesis that the public is not supportive of plea bargaining in cases of violent crimes. The paper looks at previous studies, with a focus on Sergio Herzog's study "The Relationship Between Public Perceptions of Crime Seriousness and Support for Plea-Bargaining in Israel: A Factorial-Survey Approach". The paper proposes a study where eight plea bargaining scenarios will be presented to individuals. The paper hopes to show that public opinion has impacted the sentencing decisions of courts regardless of plea bargains.
Outline:
Introduction
Prior Studies
Variables for this Study
Scenarios of Plea Bargaining
Independent Variables
From the Paper
"Plea bargaining is not a legal punishment assigned to criminal behavior, but is a tool that has been utilized by an overburdened legal system, which is poorly equipped to otherwise deal with the enormous numbers of criminal cases that filter through the system. Without plea bargaining, law enforcement, prosecutors, defense attorneys and finders of fact would be required to meet the legal definitions of the rules of evidence, which could involve lengthy processes and costs associated with bringing those cases to trial and through the court system."
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Criminal Justice, 2008.
A discussion on the impact and successes of community policing.
1,248 words (approx. 5.0 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 42.95
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Abstract
The paper introduces and analyzes the topic of criminal justice and community policing. The paper specifically discusses zero-tolerance policing as compared with problem-oriented policing (POP) programs. The paper explains that zero-tolerance policing involves police policies that hold all crimes at the same level of importance, no matter how petty the crime, whereas problem-oriented policing involves identifying problem areas, such as drug-ridden neighborhoods or drug trafficking in general, and hones in on these areas to eliminate the problem. The paper relates that each of these policing methods have merit on their own, and each have been responsible for reductions in crime in the cities where they have been implemented.
From the Paper
"In New York City, many people believe that zero-tolerance helped reduce the crime rate by over 30 percent, and led to far greater safety in the city. However, one of the most disturbing outcomes of zero-tolerance in New York City is the marked rise in citizen complaints against the police department. Civil rights claims against police rose 75 percent during the implementation and expansion of zero-tolerance . While proponents of the zero-tolerance policy note that most of these claims are never substantiated, it seems the policy has created more animosity between police and citizens in many areas. In addition, proponents point to zero-tolerance as the reason NYC's crime rates dropped so dramatically in the mid- to late-1990s, but other observers note that crime rates were dropping all over the country during this time, not just in New York Community-oriented policing (COP) revolves around the central idea that "police and citizens share responsibility for identifying and solving crime problems and that law enforcement is one important tool for addressing crime, but it is not an end in itself."
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Treating Juveniles As Adults, 2008.
This paper explores the effectiveness of waiving juveniles to the adult justice system.
3,101 words (approx. 12.4 pages), 8 sources, APA, $ 90.95
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Abstract
The paper contends that if states wish to essentially take away a juvenile's life through hefty sentences, there must be clear evidence that such a process leads to a better outcome for society as a whole, and for juvenile crime rates. The paper looks at the research for and against this practice and reveals that current research is demonstrating that the process may be highly problematic. The paper concludes that although research is incomplete, it has raised some troubling questions that may one day lead us to more definitively declare that the system is dysfunctional and ineffective.
Outline:
Trending Away From Waivers?
A Questionable Deterrent Effect
Prosecutorial Waivers and Due Process
Monsters or Ordinary Kids?
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Arguably, the two most critical roles of the American justice system are to punish and hopefully rehabilitate criminal offenders. However, when it comes to the most serious crimes, such as premeditated murder, the focus can shift primarily to punishment, and offenders can face incarceration for life, and even execution. These harsh penalties have been extended to juveniles, who often can be waived to adult courts, where they are tried and subsequently imprisoned as adults. Proponents of the waiver system argue that serious crimes deserve the most severe penalties, and that even juveniles understand the basic premise that murder is wrong. Further, some believe that those who commit serious crimes such as murder may be beyond rehabilitation, and should be incarcerated for as long as possible."
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Hate Crimes, 2008.
A discussion on the difference between hate, brutal and ordinary crimes and the involvement of the law.
961 words (approx. 3.8 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
The paper discusses hate crimes and states that they differ from ordinary crimes in the impact they have upon the victim and the larger group to which the victim belongs. An example has been provided in "Attorney General's Civil Rights Commission on Hate Crimes" by mentioning the Jewish and Filipino communities throughout US that were strongly impacted by the attack on the West Valley Jewish Community Center and the slaying of Joseph Ileto. The paper highlights that another community greatly impacted by the murders of Matthew Shepherd and Gary Matson and Winfield Mowder, was the gay community. The paper mentions that hate crimes affect not only the victim but also all the members of the victim's group. The paper continues and reflects on the punishment involved, the differences between hate, ordinary and brutal crimes and the involvement of the law. The paper concludes that it is necessary to identify the nature of the crime together with proper recording of crime.
From the Paper
"There are many thinkers and writers that question the legitimacy of hate or bias crime laws on the basis that they violate a fundamental democratic principle by punishing individuals for their prejudiced thoughts and beliefs. The assumption is that the defendant had a bias motive for committing the offense and the motive consists solely of the defendant's thought. Therefore, it has been argued that bias crime laws are illegitimate because they punish motive. In addition, the fact that complicates things further is that the motive is inextricably tied to a certain set on political values and attitudes. Other writers have recognized that hate crime is a social construct, focusing on prejudice as a criminal act."
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Criminal Justice and Restorative Justice, 2008.
An examination of the literature related to restorative justice in the criminal justice system from the years 1996 to 2006.
985 words (approx. 3.9 pages), 4 sources, APA, $ 34.95
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Abstract
This paper examines the content of peer reviewed articles published within a ten-year period, from 1996 to 2006. It focuses on the criminal justice system and its experiences with restorative justice. The paper looks at the values that researchers have that drive investigation during any given period, as seen in the examined articles. The paper also identifies gaps and trends in research during the specified period.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Purpose
Hypothesis
Strengths/Weaknesses
Methods
Data Collections
Results
Method
Variables - Independent and Dependent
Statistical Analysis/Means/Mode/Median
Conclusion
From the Paper
"Given the evidence provided from this study the researcher finds the following true. Hypothesis (1) - proven true, given restorative justices seems to be the more commonly used tool for rehabilitating criminals in the population specified. Other data collected from the content analysis however suggests hypotheses (2), suggesting less relapse is likely among participants engaged in this form of justice remains questionable. Further research is needed to establish or refute this hypothesis, given changing trends in criminal justice and criminal behaviors in the future. Overall, the researcher argues despite some comments to the contrary, restorative justice, which aims to involve victims in the rehabilitation process and encourages convicted criminals at a young age to rehabilitate and participate in their community, remains an effective form of justice."
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Plea Bargaining and the Criminal Justice System, 2008.
A research proposal that examines public opinion regarding plea bargaining and its effect on sentencing decisions of the criminal justice system.
1,497 words (approx. 6.0 pages), 12 sources, APA, $ 49.95
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Abstract
This paper examines plea bargaining and what it means for the criminal justice system. The paper presents a research proposal that analyzes public opinion regarding plea bargaining. It hypothesizes that the public is not supportive of plea bargaining in cases of violent crimes and it suggests that public opinion has impacted the sentencing decisions of courts regardless of plea bargains.
Table of Contents:
Introduction
Prior Studies
Variables for this Study
Scenarios of Plea Bargaining
Independent Variables
Control Variables
From the Paper
"Julian V. Roberts' book, Public Opinion, Crime and Criminal Justice, reports on a series of surveys that examined public opinion on certain aspects of legal procedure and processes. In 1988, a survey was conducted of public opinion in Canada, and found that four out of five people surveyed disapproved of plea bargaining (Roberts, Julian V, 1997, p. 210). "There was little demographic variance in attitudes. Moreover, the link between attitudes and plea bargaining and views of sentencing were clear. People who regarded plea bargaining as unacceptable also thought that sentences were not harsh enough (Roberts, Julian V, 1997, p. 210)." The same survey yielded information to show that the prosecutors' reasons underlying the plea bargaining impacted public opinion. "Finally, the presence of information about a plea bargain in scenarios had the impact of changing public evaluations of criminal justice professionals (Roberts, Julian V, 1997, p. 210)." It did not change their overall opinion of the use of plea bargaining. "For example, if subjects read about a case in which a plea bargain had taken place, they had more negative views of the prosecutor (Roberts, Julian V, 1997, p. 210).""
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Juvenile Delinquency, 2008.
Explains that juvenile delinquency has become a major crime issue in the United States and elsewhere.
2,160 words (approx. 8.6 pages), 7 sources, APA, $ 67.95
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Abstract
This paper relates the stage of adolescence and the manner in which it can lead to patterns of juvenile delinquency is an important topic to discuss because juvenile delinquency has become a major crime issue in the United States and elsewhere. The paper then reviews and discusses readings about several psychological theories relating to adolescence and juvenile delinquency. The paper points out that none of the readings explain why an adolescent who lives in the suburbs and in a generally positive environment may engage in criminal activity.
Table of Contents:
Resources / Summaries
Discussion Section
From the Paper
"The readings also confirm my personal belief that adolescents students do better when their parents are involved in their education and upbringing. Parents that become involved in an adolescents education at school and in the community, result in higher grades and test scores, better attendance and regularly completed assignments, fewer placements in special education and remedial classes, and more positive attitudes and behavior in school. It appears that in the adolescent stage that there is no substitute for the consistency and nurturing provided by parental care, especially if the alternative is poorly funded childcare."
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The Cocaine Market, 2008.
An exploration of the major role that cocaine has played in the financing of the world's drug market.
1,433 words (approx. 5.7 pages), 6 sources, MLA, $ 47.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the tremendous growth of the cocaine business over the past two centuries. The writer explains that it started out as a medicinal drug and developed into a major part of an illegal underworld that has affected many lives and enriched those who realized the marketability and profitability of its potent and addictive nature. The paper relates that cocaine became immensely popular in the 70's disco era as it was thought not to be as harmful as speed or heroine, and it was believed to have a stimulating effect on the brain. The paper then shows how this led to cartels being set up in Columbia, bringing drug dealers huge profits from the drug trade throughout the 70s and 80s and even to the present. This paper includes tables.
Outline:
Cocaine's Early History on the Drug Market
A Very Sellable, But Illegal Drug
Reasons for Cocaine's Popularity
Cocaine and the Brain
From the Paper
"Realizing cocaine's addictive nature and growing market value, The United States Government made its manufacturing and distribution illegal with The Controlled Substances Act of 1970. It was also in this decade that the cocaine trade took off as the drug became a very popular part of the culture in the United States. Understanding the drug's growing popularity, cocaine once again became a huge business beginning in South American countries, especially Columbia, and finding its way to the drug market in the United States."
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Race, Gender and White Collar Crime, 2008.
A research proposal exploring the perceptions of race and gender on white collar crime.
3,813 words (approx. 15.3 pages), 10 sources, APA, $ 104.95
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Abstract
The paper proposes research on a New Jersey college campus to ascertain the perceptions of race and gender on white collar crime. The paper provides a literature review to either prove or disprove the hypothesis that white males will find white-collar crime less prevalent and damaging then racial minorities and women. The paper explains the methodology to be used and looks at previous research on this topic.
Outline:
Abstract
Introduction
Literature Review
Theory and Hypothesis
Methods
From the Paper
"How can one expect society to act towards a crime if the lines are so vague that it often is only used to characterize those considered elite and upper class? This study attempts to further explain and clarify the perceptions of white collar crime by gender and race. It is our belief that White males (who benefit the most from the practice) will find white-collar crime less prevalent and damaging then racial minorities and women. This research helps to affirm not only is there a need for further research regarding perceptions men and women of various races regarding how they view white collar crime, there is a need to see why these perceptions have not been studied extensively over the past decade of research."
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Law Enforcement, 2008.
A literature review of the role of law enforcement in emergency management situations.
3,753 words (approx. 15.0 pages), 15 sources, APA, $ 103.95
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Abstract
This study presents an overview of some of the important literature on the subject of law enforcement's role in an emergency situation. Because the role that law enforcement plays in these types of situations can be so varied, it is important from a policy perspective to consider the relevant analysis of the subject in order to develop a clearer grasp of what effective roles law enforcement agencies can play in an emergency management situation. The examination reveals what, if any, consensus exists on the matter of the role that law enforcement agencies should take in an emergency management situation.
Outline:
Introduction
Literature Review
Discussion
Conclusion
From the Paper
"The existing literature on the question of law enforcement's role in emergency management is quite varied. This can be attributed in large part to the reality that emergency management situations can be incredibly varied and present demands to law enforcement agencies that are quite different from one incident to the next. For instance, the pressures placed on law enforcement agencies during the mitigation of a terrorist attack will be quite different from said agency's responses to a natural disaster, to a HAZMAT incident, or to a public health emergency. Despite these differences in circumstances, common themes emerge throughout the literature that suggests that law enforcement's role will be an extension of its traditional roles in protecting life and property in non-emergency management situations. "
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Stereotypes, 2008.
A discussion on conflict resolution, which is an effective practice for assisting youth that have demonstrated self-destructive, antisocial, or violent behavior.
786 words (approx. 3.1 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 28.95
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Abstract
This paper explains that conflict resolution involves a constructive approach to interpersonal and inter-group conflicts that is directed at helping people with opposing positions to work together to agree on acceptable compromise solutions. The paper highlights that like most programs designed for adolescents, an effective intervention program is meant to take into consideration the psychological needs and the developmental stage of the youth. The paper also relates that it is important to design interventions for groups, inter-groups and individuals. The paper goes on to discuss the goals that should be established by a counselor in a detention institution as well as the
From the Paper
"This is related to stereotyping reducing and cooperation in diverse groups. First of all, the counselor should raise awareness of their differences and emphasize that this is an advantage and not a basis for prejudice, discrimination and stereotyping, but for rich intercultural exchange. Activities may be developed in which the participants have a personal unique contribution, reinforcing the uniqueness and individuality of each person. An emphasis on kindness may be placed as well, since it is a facilitator to understanding equality and avoiding such negative behaviors as stereotyping and discrimination."
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The Case of Jeffrey MacDonald, 2008.
An examination of the errors in the investigation against Jeffrey MacDonald for the murders of his wife and children.
1,519 words (approx. 6.1 pages), 3 sources, APA, $ 50.95
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Abstract
This paper discusses the case of Jeffrey MacDonald who was convicted in the United States of the brutal murders of his wife and children. It looks at the investigative process and shows how the process reveals several serious errors, which made it virtually impossible for the police to locate any other suspects. The paper claims that perhaps there was not enough evidence to definitely claim that MacDonald was not the actual perpetrator of the murders.
From the Paper
"However, the incompetent investigation, on its own, may not have been enough to ensure MacDonald's conviction. It is important to understand that the police and the prosecution work as a unit. The prosecution was convinced of MacDonald's guilt and worked diligently to make sure that exculpatory evidence was never presented to the jury. While it may seem that the police had no responsibility for how the evidence was used, that assumption is simply not true. Many of the investigating officers and laboratory technicians were aware that the prosecution was attempting to suppress exculpatory evidence. In fact, there were notes in files, indicating that they were aware of this bias. The individual officers should have been less complacent and should have done everything they could have done, including going to the defense; to make sure that the defendant was aware of exculpatory evidence. Unfortunately, given the presiding judge's apparent bias, even defense knowledge about the exculpatory evidence may not have resulted in a not-guilty verdict. While the incompetent investigation contributed to MacDonald's conviction, it may not have led to an inevitable conviction. However, the incompetent investigation, biased judge, and dishonest prosecution made MacDonald's conviction a certainty. It remains to be seen whether MacDonald will ever receive an opportunity for all of the evidence to be weighed in a criminal court of law."
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