Author Description

The American criminal justice system is designed for the fair administration of legal protections and equal provision of public safety. there is little doubt that the present system embodies both prevailing strengths and lingering deficiencies. Law enforcement policies, penal codes, and prosecutorial and judicial procedures have been continuously revised, including efforts toward more timely and compassionate treatment for crime victims. In 1997 approximately 30,000 legislated laws at the federal, state, and local levels existed that addressed crime victim rights and services. The first edition of this book was published by the State of California, Office of Criminal Justice Planning. This book occupies an unique place in the literature on criminal victimization. There is no other book which offers a comprehensive approach to understanding the impact of crime of minority victims. It is an important source for gaining general awareness, basic knowledge, and increased skills on two of the most challenging and irrepressible forces in American society: crime and pluralism. This book offers a timely and practical approach to both. Topics include: increasing cultural sensitivity, impact of crime on minorities, racism and hate violence, improving the system, designing victim services, and more. Law enforcement professionals, social workers, legislatures, and others interested in the topic.