Social class

Getting Started

Because criminal justice resources are limited, most law enforcement agencies and prosecutors have set policies about which criminal statutes will and will not be enforced.

Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:

· Describe the effects of social dynamics on discretionary enforcement in the criminal justice system.

Resources

· Textbook: Collective, C. J., Prior, S., & Jones, L. (2018). Investigating difference: human and cultural relations in criminal justice (3rd ed.). Pearson.

Background Information

Many criminal statutes classify behaviors that are common in lower socioeconomic classes as crimes.  For example, offenses such as trespassing and public urination are common among the homeless population.  Many jurisdictions have made political decisions to forego enforcement and/or prosecution of these crimes.  Proponents argue that non-enforcement is the humane course of action.  Opponents argue that non-enforcement leads to a state of anarchy and disrespect for the rule of law.

Instructions

1. Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade.

2. Read Chapter 9 in our textbook and respond to the following:

a. How do social class dynamics affect which crimes are most strictly enforced and prosecuted?  Do you agree that law enforcement agencies should have policies which prevent enforcement of laws that are on the books?  Why or why not?

3. Please defend your answer and be substantive in your response.  It is expected that this initial posting be a minimum of two paragraphs (or 200 words) in length.

4. Your initial post is due by the end of the fourth day of the workshop.

5. Read and respond to at least two of your classmates’ postings, as well as all follow-up instructor questions directed to you, and post on two different days in this discussion, by the end of the workshop.