This semester, I have been given the opportunity to take a criminal justice class at 8 in the morning on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Although the time is not ideal (I am definitely not a morning person), this class has proved to be one of the more interesting core classes that I have taken at TCU. It has really opened my eyes to the realities of crime in American society and the criminal justice system. Before I took this class, I learned about the criminal justice system through news sources. However, the news tends to feed off of negative events instead of focusing on the good that is present in our world today.
So I'd like to introduce to you the misconceptions we have about crime in today's society.
Myth #1: Crime has increased.
Reality: According to statistics, crime has actually decreased. There was a steep increase in crime during the 1960s due to the fact that many baby boomers were reckless teenagers and societal turbulence (the Civil Rights movement, protests against the Vietnam War, birth of drugs, and the decay of inner cities). However, in the 1980s, conservative crime policies were put in effect. Some of those policies include three strike laws and punishment for more petty crimes such as vandalism. Also, the decrease in the use of crack cocaine might have contributed to less criminal activity as well.
The problem is that media sources hype so much about crime nowadays. Our country has devoted many of its resources to employ more local police officers.
Another way that crime might have decreased is the fact that more people than before are behind bars. Due to conservative policies of swift punishment instead of allotting criminals another chance (via rehabilitation, probation, or parole), millions of people now call jails and prisons their new home. Unfortunately, putting many people behind bars puts a strain on taxpayers and the economy.
However, let us not forget that crime statistics are never accurate. Some crime reporting systems only document felonies while other crime reporting systems document felonies and minor misdemeanors. Furthermore, there are many unreported crimes. Most of these crimes are considered personal crimes such as rape, domestic violence, and property crimes. Many victims fear that they will not be taken seriously by the justice system or retaliation from their perpetrator (especially if the person is a family member/significant other). Other victims believe that it is a waste of time and energy to report a personal crime. Submitting a police report and the possibility of reporting to a courtroom can be stressful and scary.
Finally, most crimes reported by police are street crimes (robbery, aggravated assault, murder etc). There are many other crimes that are committed in our society and those numbers are rising. Cybercrime and identity theft are on the rise and it is important for every individual to practice safe procedures when using the Internet or talking on the phone.
Myth #2: Robbery, burglary, and theft are the same crimes.
Reality: All three involve taking things without someone's consent. However, robbery is taking something from someone after putting them in a state of fear (like pointing a gun at them). Burglary occurs when the owner of a home or business is not present and someone who is not invited comes in and steals items. Finally, theft occurs when you are allowed to be in a certain place (such as a store or someone's house), but you steal something without paying for it or asking permission.
Myth #3: Most crimes committed against businesses are shoplifting incidents.
Reality: Although shoplifting incidents do gather a ton of attention from the police, most crimes are committed internally by employees of a certain business, restaurant, store etc. Since some employees are responsible for manning the cash register, it can be tempting to walk away with some money at the end of the shift. Other employees are responsible for stocking shelves with supplies and a few items might go "missing." As an employee of a workplace, it is your responsibility to abide by the honor code at all times and report anyone who you see stealing anything from your work.
Myth #4: Prison and jail are the same.
Reality: Prison is designed for people who are sentenced for more major crimes (felonies) who will be behind bars for longer than a year. Jail is designed for individuals who are sentenced for misdemeanors and will be sentenced for less than a year.
Myth #5: Indicted means that you're convicted of a crime.
Reality: Indicted means that they are going forward with your case. You are still innocent until proven guilty. Most cases are short and sweet and to the point (especially in bigger cities where there are higher crime rates). Most judges do not go through due-process and 90% of defendants plea guilty so that they can receive a reduced sentence (plea bargain). Most people accused of crime do not actually spend time in jail due to lack of evidence or the fact there are other options such as probation/counseling/communication/paying a fine that can be more effective than being locked behind bars. And those who do spend time in jail/prison rarely serve their entire sentence.
Myth #6: Most crimes are committed by young minority men who live in poverty and were raised in a dysfunctional, abusive family.
Reality: This is a huge stereotype that many of us tend to have. You need to consider other factors as well. There are plenty of wealthy individuals who came from very supportive families who commit crime as well. There are many psychological factors (such as mental illness) and biological factors (certain genes might increase the risk of committing a crime).
