NCJ Number
70870
Date Published
1980
Length
17 pages
Annotation
This publication summarizes the objectives and operation of career criminal programs (CCP) and discusses California's actions to design and fund a State CCP.
Abstract
CCPS or major violator units are usually established as separate prosecutorial units in the district attorney's office, to concentrate investigative and prosecutorial resources on the conviction of repeat offenders. Such units were first recommended in 1973 by the National Advisory Commission on Criminal Justice Standards and Goals. A CCP aims at both crime control and deterrence. Program features shared by CCPS funded by LEAA include organization as a separate bureau, a system of direct police referral of potential qualifying cases, and an objective selection procedure to identify qualifying offenders. Other common features include vertical prosecution; limited plea bargaining; and close coordination with law enforcement agencies, courts, and corrections. Demonstrated CCP benefits include improved prosecutorial techniques and effectiveness, increases in the overall rate of convictions, and increases in convictions for the most serious charges. Additional benefits include reduction in plea negotiations, increased incarceration rates, and increased average sentence lengths. Following California's approach to developing a State-financed CCP, a State should determine local needs, respond to issues of concern, and enact and implement legislation. A list of 16 references as well as addresses from which to obtain information on existing CCPS are included. The text of California's Career Criminal Act is appended.