NCJ Number
121433
Journal
ABA Journal Dated: (June 1989) Pages: 52-56
Date Published
1989
Length
5 pages
Annotation
This article details abuses and miscarriages of justice resulting from convictions based on the testimony of jailhouse informants.
Abstract
Jailhouse informants offer testimony against their fellow prisoners in exchange for reduced sentences. Often these informants are cynical and unreliable, manipulating the criminal justice system for their own ends. Some argue, however, that the criminal justice system would collapse without the use of informants. Because the only witnesses to many crimes are criminals, the system tolerates informants because they are necessary. Others argue that the American Bar Association or the American Law Institute should promulgate rules preventing prosecuting attorneys from giving inducements to jailhouse informants, for the testimony of bought witnesses is worthless.