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Fighting Violent Crime in America

NCJ Number
97835
Author(s)
R S Lauder
Date Published
1985
Length
249 pages
Annotation
This text discusses the prevalence of violent crime in the United States, provides case histories that outline the nature and extent of the problem, and advocates the application of successful business techniques and advanced technology to the fight against violent crime.
Abstract
Areas where business computer usages could be applied to crime are suggested; for example, crime-ridden cities could use computer models to project court, prison, police, and social welfare needs, and researchers could examine the potential of juvenile projects. Attention focuses on subteen criminals and on ways to salvage them; criminals aged 13 to 17 are discussed, and the need to bring some order to the juvenile courts so that juvenile crime can be countered is cited. Alternatives to locking up youthful offenders are explored; suggestions for ensuring that their first encounters with the police deter them from recidivism are offered, and the need for swift justice is identified. The importance of building more prisons is emphasized, and alternatives to prisons are considered. Women's role in violent crime is delineated, and statistics on female police officers and corrections officers are provided. Victim compensation and restitution services are supported, and their expansion is urged. Finally, the roles that volunteers can play in fighting crime are described, and the costs of crime prevention are delineated. Included are chapter notes, an index, and approximately 400 references.