4-2 Journal: Decisions From Above

Occasionally, the United States Supreme Court makes decisions that are considered groundbreaking (abortion, gay marriage, death penalty, civil rights). In turn, these court decisions can affect public policies. These changes are often the result of the changes in public opinion. Often, the response of policy actors, such as the media and local governmental agencies, to the court decision plays a role in these policy changes.

Research and locate at least one United States Supreme Court case that you believe influenced state or federal decisions or actions about your selected public policy issue(HATE CRIMES) that in turn will influence your departmental policy(BODY CAMERAS). The module resource U.S. Case Law Opinions offers a sampling of recent and historic Supreme Court cases to choose from. You may also choose one from your own research.

In a minimum 400-word journal assignment, provide the name of the case, the holding of the case, and an explanation of how you believe the decision played a role in policy changes.

To successfully complete this assignment, view the Journal Guidelines and Rubric PDF document.