INTRO CRIMINAL

Introduction to Criminal Justice Law enforcement agencies are the primary officials responsible for detecting crime violators and bringing these individuals into the criminal justice system. How do law enforcement agencies detect crimes? Who may be involved in the process of detection/investigation?

Introduction to Criminal Justice Arrest means that law enforcement can restrict the freedom of people by taking them into custody. After the physical apprehension, an arrestee is typically transported to a police station or other custodial facility where they may be booked. Booking procedures are designed to: a. establish identity; b. charge the person with a specific violation (or multiple violations).

Under Arrest Video

Introduction to Criminal Justice The next step involves prosecution and pre-trial services. The government officials responsible for formally charging and prosecuting crime(s) in Massachusetts are referred to as District Attorneys (DA`s). The DA`s office has the authority to accept, amend, or dismiss some or all of the charges brought to them by police departments.

Introduction to Criminal Justice The purpose of this wide discretion and autonomy is, in part, to guarantee the due process rights of defendants. Bail: this is best described as a promise to appear in court. Arraignment : this is best described as a “first appearance” or initial appearance before a judge or magistrate to be formally charged, arrange for legal representation, etc.

Introduction to Criminal Justice Adjudication is best described as when a defendant pleads guilty or not guilty at their arraignment. If a not guilty plea is entered, then the trial phase takes place. If a guilty plea is entered, then the sentencing phase takes place.

Introduction to Criminal Justice Sentencing may include probation, house arrest, jail/prison, etc. Judges may be assisted in making their determinations by utilizing a pre-sentence report provided by the Board of Probation (or probation department). These reports may contain background information on a defendant’s life history, family, employment, education, military service, etc.

Introduction to Criminal Justice For defendants remanded to a county correctional facility or state prison on state charges, they are transferred into the custody of the county sheriff’s department or the state’s Department of Corrections (DOC). Conversely, defendant’s charged with federal crimes would be transferred to the federal Bureau of Prisons.

Introduction to Criminal Justice

Introduction to Criminal Justice For defendants remanded to a county correctional facility or state prison on state charges, they are transferred into the custody of the county sheriff’s department or the state’s Department of Corrections (DOC). Conversely, defendant’s charged with federal crimes would be transferred to the federal Bureau of Prisons.