Criminal Justice Chapter 9
Indeterminate Sentencing
A sentence of 8-15 years is an example of indeterminate sentencing. The inmate's behavior while incarcerated is the primary determinant of the amount of time served.
Social Debt
A sentencing principal that holds that an offender's criminal record should objectively be taken into accountin sentencing decisions.
Deterrence
Deterrence uses the example of threat of punishment to convince people that criminal activity is not worthwhile.
General Deterrence
General deterrence attempts to discourage potential offenders from committing crimes.
Incapacitation
Incapacitation focuses on separating offenders from society to reduce opportunities for further criminality.
What is retribution?
It is the earliest known rationale for punishment , it is a call for punishment based on a perceived need for vengeance. The just deserts model for sentencing emphasizes retribution.
Mandatory Sentencing
Mandatory sentencing is a structured sentence scheme that mandates clearly enumerated punishments for specific offenses or for habitual offenders convicted of a series of crimes
Structured Sentencing
Proportionality: A sentencing principle that holds that the severity of sanctions should bear a direct relationship to the seriousness to the crime committed
Three Strikes Law
Requires mandatory sentences for offenders convicted of a third serious felony. Requires a sentence of 25 years to life for three-time felons with convictions for two or more serious or violent prior offenses.
Restorative Justice
Restoration is a sentencing goal that seeks to address this damage by making the victim and the community whole again An example of restorative justice is crime has individual and social dimensions of responsibility.
What is the goal of sentencing?
Retribution, incapacitation, deterrence, general deterrence, specific deterrence, rehabilitation, and restoration
What is sentencing?
Sentencing is the imposition of a penalty on a person convicted of a crime
Specific Deterrence
Specific deterrence seeks to reduce the likelihood of recidivism (relapsing into criminal behavior).