NCJ Number
120087
Journal
Justice Quarterly Volume: 6 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1989) Pages: 219-232
Date Published
1989
Length
14 pages
Annotation
Previous research shows that State legislators often hold diverse opinions on issues related to crime and criminal justice.
Abstract
This body of research also reveals that general policy concerns (such as policing, sentencing, and corrections) do not galvanize lawmakers along sharp political lines, as does the policy of capital punishment. Through a survey of legislators in Indiana which measured political ideology and other factors, this paper considers level and correlates of support for the practice of executing juveniles who commit murder. The State of Indiana is considered a special case because it legally maintains the lowest minimum execution age in the nation. Findings are compared to legislators' attitudes and correlates of support for adult capital punishment. It is also suggested that a difference exists between public and legislators' support for juvenile capital punishment. The analysis concludes that these differences can be explained most clearly through reference to fundamental beliefs about juvenile justice, political party affiliation, and an interest in prisons. 3 tables, 36 references. (Publisher abstract)