Discussion Question

****Due in 12  Hours****

In the following scenario, you will act in the role of a police officer who is dealing with a juvenile. This juvenile is out past curfew. Curfew violations are a city ordinance, and police officers may make an arrest in this situation or decide to handle the offense less formally.

• What factors would contribute to your exercising discretion in this scenario?
• According to rational choice theory, individuals consciously weigh the risk and reward of an action before they break the law. If you subscribe to rational choice theory, would there be a reason to use discretion in this circumstance?
• In understanding conflict theory, discuss how this impacts the officer’s decision to arrest or not arrest individuals based on social class.