Impact of Natural Resource Development on the Criminal Justice System

• NCJ Number: 92419
• Author(s): J S Fitzpatrick
• Date Published: Unknown
• Length: 242 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This Montana study examines the impact of natural resource development on the criminal justice systems of the communities where it occurs, using five case studies. It offers recommendations for dealing with such circumstances.

Abstract

Data and information for the study were derived from a literature review, case studies including site visits to five Montana and Idaho counties, personal interviews, and statistical reports. This study was prompted by concern in the Montana Board of Crime Control about reported changes in the level of criminal activity and lack of direction in criminal justice planning in communities experiencing natural resource development. This 1982 project sponsored by the Board of Crime Control examined the following issues: who is involved in criminal activity, who are their victims, how violators are treated, whether police practices change, and whether some communities are more tolerant or susceptible to crime. It also identified the providers of leadership and ascertained the extent of public involvement in local criminal justice issues, the extent of interagency coordination and its impact on crime and the criminal justice system, and ways to mitigate the impact of crime and deviance and make criminal justice agencies more effective. The case studies focus upon general characteristics of the community, the general nature of community change due to natural resource development, specific changes related to criminal justice, criminal justice resources and problems, and citizen participation and leadership. Some of the major changes and key actions by the five communities in the area of criminal justice are summarized, and a final assessment of the findings is offered. Recommendations are presented for law enforcement, the courts, and social service and correctional agencies. The appendixes list resources available for studying the impact of natural resource development and provide data from the case studies. About 130 references are listed.