Challenges Faced in Criminal Justice
Challenges Faced in Criminal Justice
Liberty University
CJUS 500: Criminal Justice Integration
Dr. William Gaines
July 4th, 2025
Challenges Faced in Criminal Justice
Abstract
The criminal justice sector is characterized by a complex environment
that necessitates meticulous navigation. The system faces numerous
challenges that affect its personnel to varying degrees, with some
experiencing regular difficulties in their roles. Although alternatives are
available to address these issues, working in this sector remains demanding
and is likely to become increasingly challenging. Forecasting the future of the
criminal justice sector remains uncertain. This paper highlights several key
issues within the criminal justice system and proposes potential solutions to
address them. The future of criminal justice administration is highly
unpredictable. It is my sincere hope that communities will continue to
support law enforcement, both in times of positive growth and in challenging
situations.
Challenges Faced in Criminal Justice
Challenges Faced in Criminal Justice
The days ahead present significant challenges and uncertainties. To
effectively respond to these circumstances and better support our officers, it
is essential to acknowledge the current state of society. The criminal justice
system faces a range of complex challenges that require officers to address
some of the most demanding situations within our communities.
Collaboration between law enforcement professionals and the public is
critical to advancing and strengthening the system.
Key areas of concern within the criminal justice system, particularly for
law enforcement agencies, include: the management of offenders with
mental health needs; the necessity for regular, updated training for officers
at all levels; the presence of racism both in the workplace and during field
operations; and the overall health and well-being of law enforcement
personnel. Each of these topics warrants careful examination and
consideration of potential solutions. Ultimately, enhancing the effectiveness
of law enforcement and the justice system will depend on deliberate
reflection and collective action.
Mental Illness among Individuals in the Criminal Justice System
A significant challenge facing law enforcement officers is interacting
with individuals experiencing mental health conditions. In Kentucky, Basic
Law Enforcement Training comprises 800 hours over 20 weeks (Kentucky
DOCJT, 2025). Additionally, officers are required to complete 40-hour annual
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training specifically aimed at supporting victims with mental health issues,
developing effective communication strategies, de-escalating situations, and
assisting those with disabilities. It is crucial to prioritize comprehensive
training in managing incidents involving individuals with mental health
concerns. Given the rising incidence of mental health crises and the
frequency with which officers encounter these scenarios, officers must
acquire an in-depth understanding of how to respond appropriately.
Individuals undergoing psychological distress may behave unpredictably,
underscoring the necessity for specialized expertise. Hands-on experience
and continued education regarding mental illnesses and crisis intervention
techniques would further equip officers to address these complex situations
within the criminal justice system.
Individuals facing mental health challenges often require tailored
interventions for effective crisis de-escalation. Evidence suggests that the
implementation of Crisis Intervention Teams can facilitate the diversion of
specific individuals toward treatment options rather than incarceration.
Recent statistics indicate that, in the United States, people with mental
illness are ten times more likely to be incarcerated than hospitalized.
Furthermore, over 70% of those in U.S. jails and prisons are diagnosed with
at least one mental disorder or substance use disorder, with up to one-third
experiencing a serious mental health condition (Warth, 2022). Data also
demonstrates a higher prevalence of mental health concerns in women’s
correctional facilities; a 2017 study reported that 20% of women in jail and
Challenges Faced in Criminal Justice
30% in prison experienced “serious psychological distress” in the month
prior to the survey, as compared to 14% of jailed men and 26% of
imprisoned men (Warth, 2022).
While incarceration is often intended to serve rehabilitative purposes,
confining individuals with mental health disorders may yield adverse
outcomes. For justice-involved populations, expanding access to mental
health care within correctional settings has been recommended. Suggested
strategies include increasing mental health staffing, allocating additional
resources for evidence-based treatment programs, and creating
environments that foster psychological well-being. These initiatives have the
potential to improve interactions and enhance safety for both individuals
experiencing mental health crises and law enforcement personnel.
The intersection of mental illness and the criminal justice system
represents a multifaceted challenge demanding comprehensive solutions.
Addressing systemic contributors and prioritizing therapeutic interventions
over punitive measures may promote a more humane and effective system.
Ultimately, the aim should be to ensure that individuals with mental health
conditions receive appropriate care, thereby reducing their involvement in
the justice system and supporting improved long-term outcomes.
Officer Health & Wellness
Police officers play a vital role in promoting safety and justice within
communities worldwide. However, the inherently demanding nature of law
Challenges Faced in Criminal Justice
enforcement places considerable pressure on their physical, emotional, and
mental well-being. Supporting officer well-being is fundamental not only for
individual officers but also for the operational effectiveness of law
enforcement agencies. The occupational hazards inherent to police work are
significant and often underappreciated, particularly in terms of their impact
on the health of officers. Routine exposure to high-stress incidents—such as
child abuse investigations, homicide cases, mass casualty events, school
shootings, sexual assaults, and occasionally terrorism—can adversely affect
mental health. According to findings in the 2017 Law Enforcement Mental
Health and Wellness Act, police officers generally experience lower life
expectancies and higher incidences of both physical and mental health
challenges compared to the broader workforce. The profession itself presents
a variety of risks, including psychological trauma, physical violence, and
vehicular accidents (National Library of Medicine, 2019).
Police officers are regular people who, like anyone else, can make
mistakes. Their personal lives often resemble those of the communities they
serve, yet we sometimes forget their humanity. While this does not excuse
criticism or obstruct their work, it is essential to recognize that law
enforcement officers face challenging situations and must rely on their
judgment. Hostility toward officers can harm their emotional well-being.
While most officers strive to make the right decisions, frequent interactions
with mentally ill individuals and high-stress situations contribute to
significant job-related stress. This stress often goes unnoticed and untreated,
Challenges Faced in Criminal Justice
as officers may fear stigma or being seen as unfit for duty (Beshears, 2017).
Persistent anxiety about job performance is common.
Unaddressed physical and mental health challenges among law
enforcement personnel may lead to significant adverse outcomes. Given
their essential function in safeguarding communities, it is imperative to
prioritize the well-being of officers. Frequent exposure to traumatic events
and the continual need for vigilance often contribute to conditions such as
PTSD, anxiety, and depression within this workforce. The 2024 study, “What
Cops Want in 2024: The State of Officer Wellness,” based on a sample of
2,833 law enforcement professionals, provides data that this article analyses
to assess the key wellness impacts arising from contemporary policing issues
and to identify practical solutions for these challenges. 71% struggle with
sleep disturbances, 50% experienced heightened anger issue, 50% indicated
relationship or family issues, 39% suffer from depression, 36% have anxiety
or panic attacks, 35% reported having PTSD, but out of all these the most
concerning is the 16% that stated they had thoughts of suicide. (Black, 2024)
Establishing a culture of wellness starts with leadership. Law enforcement
leaders can foster healthier work environments by prioritizing wellness
policies, advocating for sufficient resources, and modeling behaviors that
promote self-care and well-being.
The health and wellness of police officers are critical to maintaining the
strength and integrity of law enforcement operations. By systematically
addressing physical, mental, emotional, and social needs, agencies can
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better equip their personnel to serve communities effectively while also
protecting their well-being. While the pursuit of improved wellness within
policing presents challenges, a sustained and strategic commitment to this
objective remains essential.
Racism Related to Criminal Justice
The relationship between racial issues and the criminal justice system
has historical roots. In colonial and post-colonial times, laws were often
created in ways that disadvantaged certain ethnic groups. Legal systems in
various countries enforced racial segregation and discrimination. For
instance, in the United States, Jim Crow laws (1877-1954) established racial
inequality, and practices such as convict leasing disproportionately affected
African Americans, impacting their economic and social status. “Under Jim
Crow laws, states could authorize separate facilities not only for schools but
for hospitals and clinics, sports events, restaurants, barbershops, railroad
and bus stations, restrooms, beaches, public parks, and many other places.”
(Jim Crow)
One of the most evident issues related to racism in criminal justice is
racial profiling, which involves targeting individuals disproportionately based
on their ethnicity or skin color. This practice has resulted in significant
disparities in how various racial groups encounter law enforcement. In the
United States, African Americans and Hispanic individuals are more likely to
be stopped, searched, and arrested compared to their white counterparts,
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regardless of the lack of concrete evidence. These practices undermine
confidence in law enforcement and perpetuate the stereotype that specific
communities are inherently criminal. The repercussions of racial profiling are
extensive. It not only leads to psychological trauma but also affects career
opportunities, educational achievement, and societal integration for those
who are unfairly targeted. Statistics show that “nearly two-thirds of black
adults (65%) say they have been in situations where people acted as if they
wereKsuspicious of them because of their race or ethnicity, while only a
quarter of white adults say that has happened to them.KRoughly a third of
both Asian and Hispanic adults (34% and 37%, respectively) say they have
been in such situations, the 2019 survey found.” (PEW, 2020)
Racial inequality in judicial proceedings is evident, with marginalized
groups often facing systemic disadvantages. Studies show racial minorities
receive harsher sentences than their white counterparts for similar crimes,
influenced by implicit bias, inequitable legal representation, and societal
prejudices. Mass incarceration exemplifies racism, with African Americans
disproportionately represented in U.S. prisons. Statistics compare “Black and
white imprisonment rates by state, finding that every state locks up Black
people at a rate at least double that of white people and, on average, at six
times the rate of white residents.” (Wang, 2023) This issue extends globally,
driven by socioeconomic disparities, discriminatory laws, and biased policing.
Initiatives to combat these inequities include community policing to build
trust, advocacy movements like Black Lives Matter highlighting racial
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injustice, and legislative reforms addressing mandatory minimum sentences,
racial profiling, and transparency in judicial processes.
Conclusion & Christian Worldview
The criminal justice system faces ongoing and evolving challenges. We
aim to adapt and improve as law enforcement officers. While it is challenging
to predict the future of criminal justice, community support remains crucial,
especially during challenging times. Law enforcement and first responders
often risk their lives to protect others, demonstrating admirable dedication
and selflessness. I hope that future generations will value these professionals
even more, recognizing that unity and support can foster a better society.
Romans 13:4 identifies governing authorities as "God’s servants for your
good (ESV, 2016), implying that contemporary leaders and law enforcement
personnel bear a divinely endorsed responsibility to protect society and
uphold the common welfare. This delegated authority necessitates a
commitment to justice and ethical conduct, as any misuse of power is
inconsistent with Biblical values. In parallel, 1 Peter 2:13-14 instructs
individuals to "submit yourselves for the Lord’s sake to every human
authority" (ESV, 2016), reinforcing the significance of respecting lawful
governance. However, this submission is not unconditional; when secular
laws or authorities conflict with divine commandments, believers are
expected to prioritize obedience to God over compliance with human
institutions, as exemplified in Acts 5:29.
Challenges Faced in Criminal Justice
The Old Testament establishes foundational principles of justice and
societal order. Notably, the Mosaic Law, delivered to the Israelites through
Moses, served as both spiritual guidance and a system of civil ordinances
designed to regulate daily life and foster communal harmony. The Ten
Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) represent a moral and ethical framework
that emphasizes justice and personal accountability. Although the Israelites
lacked a modern police force, enforcement of these laws was carried out by
elders, judges, and priests. For example, Deuteronomy 16:18 instructs, "You
shall appoint judges and officers in all your towns that the Lord your God is
giving you, according to your tribes, and they shall judge the people with
righteous judgment." (ESV, 2016) This directive underscores the Biblical
support for structured governance to uphold justice and fairness within
society. Matthew 5:9 mentions, “Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall
be called the children of God” (ESV, 2016). Without their presence, our world
would be more brutal and violent. Officers must resist letting the
community’s negative remarks affect them. A verse that encapsulates this
concept effectively is Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ,
who strengthens me” (ESV, 2016).
The criminal justice system often necessitates resilience and support,
as professionals must navigate both favorable and challenging
circumstances. Even in the most challenging circumstances, it is important to
remain resilient and trust that you are supported throughout the process.
Reference Page
Challenges Faced in Criminal Justice
Warth, Patricia. December 5th, 2022 Unjust Punishment: The Impact of
Incarceration on Mental Health, https://nysba.org/unjust-punishment-the-
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Kentucky DOCJT. Team Kentucky Justice and Public Safety Cabinet. Law
Enforcement Basic Training. https://www.docjt.ky.gov/basic
KOVA Corp: Reasons Why Police Deserve Our Thanks and Respect. Reasons
Why Police Deserve Our Thanks And Respect - KOVACorp
Beshears, M. (March 30, 2017). How Police Can Reduce and Manage Stress:
How police can reduce and manage stress
Stojkovic, S., Kalinich, D. B., & Klofas, J. (2015). Criminal Justice
Organizations: Administration and Management. Cengage Learning
The Editors of Encyclopedia Britannica. Jim Crow Laws Key Facts. Britannica
Jim Crow Laws | Key Facts | Britannica
DeSilver, D., Lipka, M., & Fahmy, D. June 3rd, 2020. 10 Things we know about
race and policing in the U.S. Pew Research Center. Race and policing in
America: 10 things we know | Pew Research Center
Wang,. L. September 27th, 2023. Updated data and charts: Incarceration stats
by race, ethnicity, and gender for all 50 states and D.C., Prison Policy
Initiative Updated data and charts: Incarceration stats by race, ethnicity, and
gender for all 50 states and D.C. | Prison Policy Initiative
