Victimization

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer discusses the issues confronting the various entities involved in the criminal justice system, especially with regard to the culture of victims, both inside and outside of the penal system. The writer notes that it must be kept in mind that when discussing victims, the victims of a crime are not the only "victims" involved. The writer points out that additionally, witnesses who hold important information about the incident, falsely accused suspects who may be subject to racial or economic biases in the judicial system, and even convicted offenders who are abused and subjected to cruel behavior within the corrections system can be construed as victims. Finally, the writer concludes that the issues facing the legal system that concern "victims" are wide-ranging and broad in scope, and will require a significant level of attention both at a national and local level to sufficiently address and remedy.

Outline:
Legal system
Police
Prosecutors
Defense Attorneys
Judges
Probation
Corrections Department
Parole Authorities

From the Paper:

"A problem with this analysis is the fact that some 911 calls are pranks, some are made by unharmed but bitter individuals who want to make trouble for spouses or roommates, and in some 911 calls the accusations that are voiced are exaggerated or even completely false. These faults with the nature of 911 calls are valid; additionally, some of the calls are made by persons whose testimony would not be considered ordinarily legally binding, such as people who are drunk or drug-influenced. Opponents of admitting 911 calls as evidence noted that they could impede the right to a fair trial, which includes the right to confront one's accuser (making them eligible to be cross-examined)."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Rips, Michael and Amy Lester, "When Words Bear Witness" New York Times, March 20, 2006,; Editorial Desk Late Edition - Final, Section A, Page 23, Column 1
• Maura Dolan and Evelyn Larrubia. "Telling Police What They Want to Hear, Even if It's False" LA Times Oct 30, 2004. pg. A.1
• Breed, Allen "Duke Lacrosse Team Known for its Swagger," Houston Chronicle online, April 6, 2006, 6:12PM available at http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/ap/college/3777049.html
• Weir, Tom and Eric Brady "In sexual assault cases, athletes usually walk," USA Today 12/22/03, Sports section
• Gest, Ted "A House Without a Blueprint," US News & World Report, July 8, 1996, p. 41

More papers on Victimization:

• Analytical Essay # 123548 : "Bullying and Victimization"
• Essay # 54029 : "Victimization of Juveniles"
• Essay # 75791 : "Sexual Victimization of College Women"
• Analytical Essay # 140090 : "Social Inequality and Predatory Criminal Victimization" - An Article Review"

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