Abstract To understand the applications of problem orientated policing, the approach is described, giving an example of how the approach has been successfully used. Critical evaluation of the approach is then completed, drawing on various reports and a successful case study. This is followed by a summary of how the strategy reduces crime. Finally, considerations for implementing the strategy are presented.
From the Paper "Problem orientated policing is a new approach to policing that is becoming increasingly popular. The major benefit of the approach is that it is proactive rather than reactive, which in the long term allows for a much better use of police resources.
"While there are various applications of the approach, one of the most common applies the approach to high crime areas, also known as ?hot spots.? This approach is designed to eliminate the causes of the problem in the ?hot spot.? This can be compared with the standard policing strategy, which would have police constantly responding to crime in the ?hot spot.? "
Abstract This paper presents an analysis of the novel by Mario Puzo, "The Godfather" on which the 1972 film of the same name was based. Parallels are drawn between Mafia life and aspects of family life and politics in the non-Mafia world through an examination of character, setting and themes in the novel.
From the Paper "Today, with the popularity of "The Sopranos" on HBO and the widespread regard given to the film version of ?The Godfather,? it is important to go back and review the actual text the film "The Godfather" was based on. The 1969 book The Godfather, by Mario Puzo, illustrates persuasively to the reader that the Mafia is not simply about crime, murder, and corruption. Rather the Mafia is an organization that has parallels with other aspects of family and political life. By understanding these parallels and the complexities of the characters described in the novel, the reader gradually comes to an uncomfortable awareness about the tensions and the difficulties in his or her own, non-Mafia family and political world."
Tags: Corleone, power, money, Mafioso, drugs, gambling, corruption, gang
Abstract The paper explains the symptoms and causes of the disease. A case study is presented and discussed. The paper discusses the different treatments currently used depending on the severity of the disease. The paper estimates how many people suffer from the disease.
From the Paper "Kleptomania, which comes from the Greek meaning, "stealing madness", is a disease that is well known, but not well understood. It first appeared sometime in the 19th century when it was noticed that many rich and noble people were stealing things they did not need or could afford to buy. Many people mistakenly call a shoplifter a kleptomaniac, but there is a difference between a petty thief and a kleptomaniac."
Abstract This paper discusses how use of a retinal scan is the latest in a series of new security measures to ensure a person's identity. It shows that by using a low level infrared light a picture can be taken of the retina of the eye. This infrared light then reflects back to the camera the distinctive patterns making up the corneal area of the individual's eye. The author evaluates how with the use of iris recognition to identify the pattern of the iris, security personnel are using a technique that is as unique to each individual as are fingerprints and how the accuracy and integrity of this method is by far the most accurate of its kind.
From the Paper "The technology of iris recognition was the brainstorm of Leonard Flom and Aran Safir. These two ophthalmologists working with the company IriScan in New Jersey first determined in the 1980's that "the iris's complex pattern of striations, freckles and fibrous structures offered a considerably more precise means of identification than the relatively simple loops and whorls of a fingerprint. The human iris has some 260 independent variables; fingerprints have roughly 35" (Economist, 1998, 80)."
Examines whether criminals are born (biology) or made (learned behavior). Discusses psychological causes, rehabilitative value of work programs, career criminals and stages of a criminal life.
1,800 words (approx. 7.2 pages), 7 sources, 2001, $ 63.95
From the Paper "Are Criminals Born or Made?
Introduction
The question whether criminals are born or made is not an easy one, and the answer may lie in one's own intellectual background. Psychological theories would place the blame in learned behavior, or a combination of social/family environment and the criminal's own neurotic predisposition. Sociologists, however, would place the blame in social and economic factors, and the success of targeted intensive job programs for offenders would lend support to their arguments. Physiologists seek biological determinants for the causes of crime. Nonetheless, some crimes seem inexplicable even given all these factors, leaving the door open for the assertion that some people are just born criminals.
Psychological Cause.."
From the Paper " This research paper discusses the use of mediation in dependency and other proceedings in juvenile courts and assesses its effectiveness. Mediation is used in dependency proceedings and in other cases involving status offenses, misdemeanors and occasionally more serious first time offenses, often in conjunction with victim-offender reconciliation efforts. In general, mediation has proved to be a cost-effective method of relieving juvenile court congestion and dealing with relatively minor juvenile offenses in a manner which optimizes familial, community, and victim involvement and at the same time serving the best interests of the juvenile offenders involved. Mediation is not, however, very effective in addressing the problem of hard core violent juvenile crime and its effectiveness is..."
Abstract This paper addresses major concerns surrounding fraudulent billing practices in the healthcare industry including: What types of fraud take place and by whom? Is the system itself, those who use it, or both at fault? Who are the real victims? What is being done to curb fraudulent practices? What are the most effective methods of prevention? It covers perhaps the most important question: Is America ready to embrace more innovative approaches that will allow people to regain control of their healthcare choices, rather than deferring to third parties and the federal government?
From the Paper "A primary reason why health care costs have escalated so quickly in recent years is the quick change from a cost reimbursement system to a capitation system. Until the early 1980's, doctors and health care providers were reimbursed on a cost basis for whatever work they did for a patient, whether this be by an HMO (if the patient had employer-based or individual insurance) or by the government (if the patient had public insurance.) This system obviously leaves the doctors with no incentive to keep costs at a minimum."
Tags: care, double, Inspector, General, Medicare, Medicaid
Abstract This paper looks at the root of evil which manifests itself in serial killing. It also analyzes the morality of serial killers by studying the behaviorial patterns of Bundy, Berkowitz, Gacy, and Toole. It examines the lack of moral development in serial killers, specifically those which fall into the category of psychopaths.
From the Paper "The lack of morality displayed by serial killers is something that is easily identifiable through hindsight. Once their malicious and brutal "secret lives" have been brought to the forefront, it is quite easy to say that these men (and sometimes women) have no concept of morality. If this lack of morality is so obvious, why then do we not notice it prior to their murderous rampages? The most likely answer to this question is that the majority of serial killers can be classified as psychopaths. According to John E. Conklin (1997, 564) a psychopath is "a person who has a specific cluster of personality traits; is asocial, aggressive, highly impulsive, and unable to form lasting bonds of affection with others; and feels little or no guilt for antisocial activities." Clecky (1976) has outline 16 major characteristics of psychopaths, which include: intelligent, rational, calm, unreliable, insincere, without shame or remorse, having poor judgment, without capacity for love, unemotional, poor insight, indifferent to the trust of kindness of others, over-reactive to alcohol, suicidal, impersonal sex life, lacking long term goals, and inadequately motivated antisocial behaviour. Due to their high levels of intelligence, psychopaths are capable of being very manipulative, and thus are able to feign the appropriate emotions necessary to blending in with society. Psychopaths make a conscious effort to distance themselves socially, and share intimacy with only those whom they can control psychologically. Thus, the immorality of psychopaths often goes unnoticed by the general public. It is not until a serial killer is captured that their personality is scrutinized closely enough to recognize the symptoms of psychopathology. These symptoms may even continue to hide after the killer has been apprehended. When Ted Bundy was first arrested he quickly made friends with his captives, and was granted special privileges which eventually lead to his ability to escape. Thus the very symptoms of psychopathology are what make it so difficult to detect prior to a serial killer's conviction."
From the Paper "Drug testing in the workplace is an issue because of the fact that drug abuse by American workers endangers their coworkers. Drug abuse also reduces productivity, costs the company and eventually the consumer money, and contributes to health problems which are then paid for either by the company or the public in some fashion. Many employers have introduced some form of drug testing program in order to reduce costs and offer help to drug abusing employees. There are concerns that such testing violates privacy rights and could lead to employees being disciplined or even fired. There are also concerns that the testing is not adequate or accurate and that innocent employees will suffer as a consequence. The courts have been called in to adjudicate these matters."
From the Paper "Crime prevention is a community responsibility. Across the United States, citizens are taking back their neighborhoods by forming partnerships with local law enforcement agencies. Mobilized communities have proven resistant to the ravages of drug dealing and violent crime that plague complacent communities.
One of the most successful programs for community empowerment has been Neighborhood Watch. The nationwide promotion of Neighborhood Watch evolved from a two-year study conducted during the mid-1980s entitled the Block Booster Project: "The study found that active block associations substantially reduced fear of crime, encouraged crime reporting, stimulated members' involvement in crime prevention, inhibited drug trafficking, and spurred beautification activities"
From the Paper " This study will examine Tang Dynasty law and courtroom procedures, focusing on the use of torture as a legal tactic, as described in Celebrated Cases of Judge Dee, translated by Robert Van Gulik. Van Gulik, translating this work in 1949, takes an extraordinarily understanding attitude toward his subject, which would seem to call more for horror. The Tang system of justice held that the defendant could not be found guilty without confessing, and if he would not confess, then he had to be tortured until he confessed. In fact, from the moment the defendant enters the courtroom, he has to kneel down on the bare floor in front of the bench, and remain this way for the duration of the case. Everything is calculated to impress the defendant with his own insignificance (xviii)."
Abstract The paper discusses how law is a powerful cornerstone of society, establishing both an orderly set of rules and regulations as well as serving as an impetus for social change. Over the past few decades, the law has brought many advances in society, from preserving a woman's right to choose an abortion (Roe v. Wade), ordering public schools to desegregate (Brown v. Board of Education), and from increasing awareness regarding sexual offenders. The paper shows, however, before these social changes could occur and laws could be enacted, a tragic event (such as a murder, racial tensions, etc.) frequently had to occur. In the case of Megan's law, a little girl had to be violently raped and murdered before legislators decided to reform the laws concerning sexual offenders. This paper analyzes and examines the multitude of issues related to Megan's Law. Part II provides an overview of Megan's Law. In Part III, the pros and cons of sex offender registration and public notification are outlined and evaluated. Lastly, this paper concludes with recommendations for improving Megan's Law.
From the Paper "While there are numerous advantages to Megan's Law, there are disadvantages as well. Critics of Megan's Law call it a ?modern-day scarlet letter,? a probation that in effect never ends. (Pitts). As such, Megan's Law arguably contradicts the notion that after an individual has paid his/her debt to society, he/she is entitled to a second chance without fear of vigilantism. (Pitts, BBC). Opponents of Megan's Law argue that it is not highly effective, especially given that only 80% of pedophiles comply with registration requirements in the United States, compared with 97% in the United Kingdom. (BBC). Additionally, opponents of Megan's Law point out that most cases of child abuse occur within the family, and suggest that victims may remain silent if they believe a family member will be denounced. (BBC)."
Tags: federal, legislation, Kanka, Ex, Post, Facto, Supreme, Court
Abstract This paper explores the alert system called AMBER: "America's Missing: Broadcast Emergency Response". This system co-ordinates law enforcement with the media, to help people act immediately after a child abduction has taken place. The paper explores the general principles of the system and looks at its origin and history of development. It then goes on to explain how the system works, citing its benefits and using case studies to highlight its success. It concludes with a look at how to implement the system in other states.
From the Paper "The goal of the AMBER program is to communicate identifying information to the general public so they can report to law enforcement if they see any of the people or automobiles described in the AMBER alerts broadcasted. When law enforcement decides a child disappearance meets the criteria to issue an AMBER alert, they pass on information to the media, who broadcast it. Citizens are told not to approach any individuals or vehicles but are given a number to phone in the information so law enforcement professionals can use the information to apprehend the individuals."
Crime scenes contain the forensic evidence required to apprehend dangerous criminals. The proper collection and processing of physical evidence is of primary importance to most police investigations. Evidence can not only establish the fact of the offense and identify the perpetrator, it may even lead to a conviction. Unfortunately though, poorly conducted crime scene investigations can somet
imes either destroy evidence or render it useless.
The primary responsibilities of the initial responder to a crime include the following: (1) to preserve life; and (2) to control suspects and witnesses. Once these two objectives have been achieved, the initial responder should focus their attention on protecting the crime scene. The importance of preserving the ..."
Abstract This paper examines the issue of gun control and whether or not federal legislation will help curb the availability of guns that have lead to an explosion of violence across the country. The author argues that the lack effective legislation that oversees the distribution and monitoring of guns has lead to an explosion in the crime rates over the past two decades. The author presents some of the arguments on both sides of the issue with the help of crime rate statistics and political testimony given on Capitol Hill from the period after September 11. The paper also examines Second Amendment rights regarding the right to bear arms and analyzes some of the different arguments that have been presented that can be transferred to the issue of gun control. The paper also presents some discussion of the NRA, including a short history, its policy goals and record of increased involvement in the shaping of any and all policy regarding guns in the United States. The author sharpens their argument against gun control through a discussion of the fact that terrorist handbooks often note how easy it is to acquire weapons in the United States.
From the Paper "It would use a Canadian technology called IBIS (Integrated Ballistics Identification System), currently used by 233 local law?enforcement sites around the United States, to produce a 360"degree photographic image of the bullet or shell casing. The software then would translate the picture into a digital signature, which could then be compared with other crime"scene evidence. If a national database were created, bullets or casings recovered from a crime scene could then be traced to the point of purchase, which would give detectives new leads. The databases that exist are quite small because only two states?"Maryland and New York"?require handgun manufacturers to fire the weapons and record the signature. When critics point out that the current database has solved no crimes and so such a system should not be implemented any more widely, they are obfuscating the issue just as they do when they say gun control in one or two states has not stopped crime. What is needed is a national solution so such arguments would be sown up for the falsehoods they are (Alter 41)."
