Cja 464 - Policy Analysis

Policy Analysis III

CJA/464

October 20 2014

The due process model and the crime control model are two very different models in which we explore in this paper. As we have read the due process model is more concerned with the right of the individuals whereas the crime control model is more concerned with reducing crime in our communities. The crime control model is more concerned with harsh punishment for the criminal as where the due process model is concerned with rehabilitating the individual as well as ensuring the individual is innocent as opposed to an immediate guilty verdict. The crime control model emphasizes punishment, keeping order, and victims' rights over the rights of the accused, whereas the due process model focuses on the protection of individual rights (Shannon M. Barton-Bellessa, 2012). We have barely scratched the surface of both models and already we begin to see how many differences there are. As we continue to explore these two models we will discover their effects on the different sections of our criminal justice system.

We have seen in the brief discussion that these two models are very different, but how do they pertain to different areas of our criminal justice system? Let’s explore the different areas, such as the law enforcement aspect of these models, and see how they play into these models. When it comes to law enforcement the crime control model can be used to make more arrests. Officers would be more apt to just make an arrest if they are following the crime control model. They would take a more “ask questions later” approach to every situation. If the utilize the due process model then they would be more interested in conserving the rights of those who they are serving. This would mean to sort out each situation before making an arrest. Getting the facts and ensuring that no-ones rights are violated in the process. The courts, as well as the prosecutors, play a different role in these policies due to their roles in the criminal justice system.

The prosecutors play a very crucial role in the criminal justice system due to the fact that if a prosecutor does not perform his duties at a high caliber then potential criminals could be released even if they were guilty. Now we look at how these policies affect these prosecutors. First off we look at how the crime control model affects them. A prosecutor has the option to be lenient if they want to be and offer a plea bargain but if they are following the crime control model chances are the wont. They will be looking for a swift prosecution to ensure that the individual is punished. On the other hand if they follow the due process model they would probably offer a plea bargain and ensure that they would receive all options that are available to them.