CJUS 601
DISCUSSION ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS
The student will complete 8 Discussions in this course.
The student will post one thread of at least 250 words by 11:59 p.m. (ET) on Thursday
of the assigned Module: Week. For each thread, students must support their assertions
with at least 2 scholarly citations in APA format.
The student must then post 2 replies of at least 150 words by 11:59 p.m. (ET)
on Sunday of the assigned Module: Week. Each reply must incorporate at least
1 scholarly citation in APA format.
Any sources cited must have been published within the last five years. Acceptable
sources include the textbook, the Bible, and scholarly peer-reviewed research articles.
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After reading Chapter 3 of the Mosher textbook, "An Arresting Experiment: Domestic Violence
Victim and Perceptions" by Miller, and "Controlling a Jail Population by Partially Closing the Front
Door" by Baumer and Adams, discuss the following prompts:
How important is it to use official crime data?
What are some issues with using official crime data?
What public policy changes could be made based on the 2 articles?
The gathering an analysis of crime data has a vital role when it comes to the shaping of policies
and/or interventions within the criminal justice system. The collection of crime data provides a
foundation for understanding crime tends, where and how to best allocate resources, and also the
implementation of the most effective strategies. Chapter Three (3) of our course text references
the scope of crime data, and the article by Baumer and Adams, and the article by Miller, which
provided some insight into managing jail populations and domestic violence respectively. This
issue, however, is that relying solely on crime data from case studies and research still has its
challenges.
One of the most notable issues the reliance on crime data can present is underreporting. An
example of such might be in relation to domestic violence cases or incidents. Victims may not
feel comfortable involving law enforcement, for a complexity of reasons. Another issue may be
the scope of any focused research. One of the key components of case study and research in the
article by Miller, discusses how the sample population from which data was gathered were all
female victims, in heterosexual relationships (Miller, 2003). This automatically alerts
practitioners or other researchers that there is a lack of diversity not only in offender profiles or
environments, but also in the pool of victims willing and active to participate in the gathering of
CJUS 601
such data. Another challenge to consider is that as with any research, official data may be subject
to manipulation or biases in reporting, which impacts the accuracy of the information.
Considering the two outside article references, public policy changes could become better
informed by acknowledging both the use of and the limitations of official crime data. The article
by Baumer and Adams is an excellent example of how using collected data and shaping policies.
By implementing a slight procedural change, and the taking such data and comparing it to a
similar set of data prior to the implemented change shows how despite understanding the
limitations, crime data when used appropriately, can provide for more specific res visions
allowing for policy and procedure to become fine-tuned. Based on the examples and data from
Baumer and Adams there opens an opportunity that could lead to reforms in pretrial processes,
alternative sentencing, or diversion programs to alleviate the overcrowding of jail populations,
while still maintaining public safety.
In conclusion, while official crime data is a valuable tool for policymaking, it is essential to
recognize its limitations and supplement it with qualitative insights from studies like those
discussed in the readings. This holistic approach can contribute to more informed and effective
public policies in addressing complex issues within the criminal justice system.
References
Baumer, T. L., & Adams, K. (2006). Controlling a Jail Population by Partially Closing the Front
Door. The Prison Journal, 86(3), 386–402. https://doi.org/10.1177/0032885506291036
Miller, J. (2003). An Arresting Experiment. Journal of Interpersonal Violence, 18(7), 695–716.
https://doi.org/10.1177/0886260503251130
Mosher, C. J., Miethe, T. D., & Hart, T. C. (2011). Chapter Three: Official Crime Data. In The
Mismeasure of Crime (2nd ed., pp. 64–115). essay, SAGE Publications.
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I thought you made some really great points in your initial post. I especially appreciated your
focus on the struggles of inaccurate data as the main reliability falls into the responsibility of
victims and the reporting of crime, combined with statistics gathered from law enforcement
agencies. Recognizing the potential for reporting errors, law enforcement agencies should strive
for transparency and accuracy in crime data reporting. This goal is to ensure that the data
collected most accurately reflects the reality of the community's safety challenges. Addressing
the complexity of reporting systems, such as the UCR, requires a commitment to ethical practices
and a holistic understanding of criminal activities from both investigative and victim
perspectives.
When it comes to law enforcement and crime data collection, it is evident that accurate
information is paramount for shaping effective policies and procedures. The responsibility to
collect crime data goes beyond a mere administrative task; it serves as a tool for discerning the
needs of the community, justifying resource allocations, and aiding in the fight against crime.
However, the inherent imperfections in data compilation must be acknowledged, as
misinterpretations or intentional manipulations can skew the perception of actual crime rates.
The article by Baumer and Adams highlights the intricate relationship between policy changes
and the criminal justice system's operational dynamics. Taking into consideration a Christian
worldview, leaders should desire to seek righteous and just outcomes, recognizing the challenges
that may arise when implementing new policies within an agency or organization. In this context,
adherence to policies within the law enforcement organization becomes crucial, emphasizing the
need for unity and compliance to effect positive changes. The study's findings, revealing both
successes and challenges in reducing the jail population, underscore the importance of informed
decision-making based on comprehensive crime data.
The Christian worldview reinforces the responsibility of law enforcement agencies to operate in
a manner that reflects the principles of righteousness, acknowledging the imperfections in data
while striving for accuracy. The integration of Christian values into the criminal justice system
whether by individual officers, or even organizational leadership contributes to a more just and
compassionate society, where policies and procedures align with the pursuit first of truth and
then also the well-being of the community. The Lord tells us, “Be just and fair to all. Do what is
right and good, for I am coming soon to rescue you and to display my righteousness among
you’” (Isaiah 56:1, NLT, 2015).
Reference:
Baumer, T. L., & Adams, K. (2006). Controlling a Jail Population by Partially Closing the Front
Door. The Prison Journal, 86(3), 386–402. https://doi.org/10.1177/0032885506291036
CJUS 601
New Living Translation Bible. (2015). NLT Online. https://www.bible.com/bible/116/
I really enjoyed the fact that you began your discussion response commencing this discussion
with a biblical perspective, Proverbs 28:23. This passage of scripture is not only a direct way to
introduce the topic at hand, but it is a verse which reminds us of the value in honesty and the
truth over telling people what they want to hear. For me, this means in layman’s terms that
while crime data may not be ‘pretty,’ it is necessary to not shy away from the facts because
some would rather ignore just how much evil is in the world. This outlook emphasizes the
importance of using official crime data but, urging discernment in the information we accept.
From a Christian worldview, the pursuit of truth should guide us to consider multiple
perspectives, combining both official and unofficial data, like that you shared from
Steffensmeier et al., for the best comprehensive understanding.
The discussion also delves into the inherent limitations of official crime data, notably the
believed large number of unreported crimes. Some of the main reasons victims may not be
attentive or reluctant for reporting crimes can stem from things such as, police discretion, and
various socio-cultural factors. When considering a Christian ethic of empathy and understanding
one can then recognize these crucial complexities when seeking justice and implementing
policies that are aligned with righteousness.
caution from Baumer and Adams (2006) reinforces that effective policy change requires
thorough planning and design. Therefore, in this context there must be advocacy for a holistic
approach to crime data, incorporating both official and unofficial sources while continuing to
remain vigilant against deceitful practices. As you opened with a reference, I would like to
round out my response with one a well. The Lord tells his children in Galatians 6:7, “Don’t be
misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant” (NLT,
2015). Likewise, in the realm of law enforcement, it is imperative that policies and procedures
that are put into place, based on collected crime data are done so through the use of wisdom nd
healthy judgement.
Reference:
Baumer, T. L., & Adams, K. (2006). Controlling a Jail Population by Partially Closing the Front
Door. The Prison Journal, 86(3), 386–402. https://doi.org/10.1177/0032885506291036
New Living Translation Bible. (2015). NLT Online. https://www.bible.com/bible/116/
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