NCJ Number
168263
Journal
Sheriff Volume: 48 Issue: 4 Dated: (July-August 1996) Pages: 38-40
Date Published
1996
Length
3 pages
Annotation
This article examines why America's current crime problems exist and suggests how they can be addressed.
Abstract
America's criminal justice system is currently overwhelmed with a high volume of criminal cases, and fearful citizens demand to be protected. This situation is caused by the prevalence of poverty and multi-generational welfare families; poverty produces frustration, the loss of hope, and a sense of powerlessness. Other conditions that have contributed to crime are the drug trade, dysfunctional families, and the absence of parental control and guidance. Further, a generally permissive attitude toward perverse and criminal behavior fails to hold people accountable for their behavior. Public and criminal justice officials cannot solve the problems of crime alone. What is required is the empowerment of the community to assume responsibility for creating a safe environment in which to live. Criminal justice officials and public officials generally must provide the leadership, motivation, and instruction for such citizen involvement.