Delinquency Deterrence Response

Delinquency Deterrence Response

R. Kris Causey

CJS 240

University of Phoenix

Delinquency Deterrence Response

Crime has been around for centuries.  In the last century, juvenile crimes have increased and spread panic and alarm.  Sentencing has become more strike and harsh for juvenile delinquents.  General deterrence is based on the fear of punishment.  When a juvenile knows that the punishment for the crime they are contemplating, they may be less likely to go through with it and commit the crime.  Specific deterrence is a method that is used on convicted criminals.  It occurs when a criminal is transported to a more secure location, given fewer privileges, and rules are enforced to their maximum capacity.  This method is used to help deter convicts from committing future crimes.  Situational crime deterrence is a method that is intended to make crime less appealing.  For example, grand theft auto is one of the highest committed crimes.  Car manufacturers have started putting anti-theft devices in vehicles that prevent them from being turned on without the key.  If a criminal was successful is stealing a car, tracking devices can be used to find the car.  This increases the likelihood that an individual trying to steal a car will be caught.

Laws have been around as long as crime has.  The thought of life in prison or death has not deterred people over the years.  Therefore, it is my belief that situational crime deterrence is the best way to prevent crime.  It is easy to think about committing a crime when the opportunity allows a possible safe getaway.  If there is money lying out and no one can see, a person is more likely to steal it.  If the individual sees surveillance cameras, they may be less likely.  A delinquent does not want to be caught.  When the opportunity to commit a crime ensures a possible capture, the crime becomes less appealing.