Digital Commons Network^™

I Had Nowhere To Go: Disenfranchised Grief And Support Groups For Families Of Incarcerated Individuals, Allegra Pocinki

Qualitative Criminology (QC)

Almost two million Americans are incarcerated in state and federal prisons, juvenile corrections facilities, and local jails. While many studies have examined the impact of mass incarceration on the daily lives of wives, female partners, and children, little is known about support groups for families of incarcerated loved ones. Throughout 2021, I conducted virtual interviews with 13 respondents across the United States who created support groups for families of incarcerated individuals or are executive leaders in these organizations. I find that support groups provide space for families to grieve without judgment, can help re-frame the grief experience and provide tools …

Guns On Campus: The Impact Of Campus Carry On Student Behavior And Emotions, Inara Ramazanova, Terressa Benz, Joseph Deangelis

Qualitative Criminology (QC)

Most research on campus carry uses a quantitative approach to measure attitudes towards campus carry policies, existing or pending. Using focus group data, this paper examines self-reported impacts on behavior and emotional responses to a three-year-old campus carry law at one university in the rural west. We explore whether guns on campus impacted student-reported behavior in the classroom or on campus. Student responses were entered into qualitative analysis software, where data was categorized according to themes. The two most prominent themes were that students reported no impact on their behavior on campus while also expressing anxiety over the lack of …

Pathways To Freedom: The Evolution Of The Parole Process For Youth Lifers In California, Laura S. Abrams, Kaylyn C. Canlione, Leah Ouellet, Audrey I. Melillo

Qualitative Criminology (QC)

This paper explores the evolution of resentencing/parole mechanisms for youth lifers in California through the lens of lived experience. We use a case study approach with a triangulation of data sources, including qualitative interviews, parole hearing transcripts, and state legislation. For three purposively selected cases, we analyze the emotional experience of seeking resentencing/parole and analyze how the parole board determined suitability for release based on standard parole factors as well as “youth-specific” mitigation considerations. In all three cases, the parole board leaned heavily on standard parole factors such as demonstration of remorse and insight, compliant prison behavior, and participation in …

The Osborne Association Prepare Program: Recidivism Analysis, Kathleen A. Tomberg, Gina Moreno

Publications and Research

The Research and Evaluation Center (REC) at John Jay College of Criminal Justice partnered with the Osborne Association to evaluate Osborne’s Prepare program that aimed to improve relationships between formerly incarcerated fathers and their children using a family-centered approach. The workshops focused on parenting and workforce skills, and were supplemented with one year of follow-up support. The JohnJayREC team examined data from 578 participants from cohorts one through 47. The research team’s findings suggest Prepare was successful in helping individuals reconnect with their children and families.

Addressing Service Gaps For Underserved Populations Of Gender-Based Violence: Insights From A Midwestern State Needs Assessment Survey, Ziwei Qi, Annalise Loucks, Suzanna Schneider

SACAD: Scholarly Activities

Abstract:

Understanding the prevalence and service needs of underserved populations affected by gender-based violence (GBV) is crucial, as their experiences are often underreported, and existing services frequently fall short of effectively addressing their needs. In this presentation, "underserved populations" refers to historically marginalized, underrepresented, and inadequately supported groups as victims of GBV.

The presentation examines various services, including direct forms like shelter and advocacy, and indirect approaches such as systemic interventions and policy reform. Conducted in a Midwestern state, the presentation involved insights from advocates, victim shelter staff, law enforcement, and legal professionals, totaling 41 responses. Findings reveal significant service …

Review Of The Violence Project: How To Stop A Mass Shooting Epidemic, Chris Hausmann

The Journal of Social Encounters

No abstract provided.

Impact Of Race And Culture Assessments (Ircas) In Combatting Anti-Black Racism And Reducing Recidivism, Ardavan Eizadirad, Greg Leslie

Education Faculty Publications

The Gladue report, named after R. v. Gladue, is a landmark Supreme Court of Canada case which emphasizes the need to consider unique circumstances faced by Indigenous individuals when determining appropriate sentences. Given the overrepresentation of Black identities at all levels in the justice system, it is argued that the use of pre-sentencing reports referred to as Impact of Race and Culture Assessments (IRCAs), also needs to be comprehensively implemented for Black offenders in Canada. IRCAs are pre-sentencing reports that help sentencing judges better understand the effect of poverty, marginalization, racism, and social exclusion on the offender and their life …

Early Life Experiences As Later Life Predictors For Criminality: Examination Of Public Criminal Records., Juliana S. Bastien

College of Arts & Sciences Senior Theses

Crime's detrimental impact on society, victims, families, and the justice system is undeniable. Thus, identifying factors that contribute to the perpetration of crime is essential to reduce the public health impact of crime. Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) are frequently found in community samples and are consistently associated with physical, psychological, and behavioral consequences. Research suggests that negative childhood experiences contribute to maladaptive behaviors, including delinquency and perpetration of crime later in life (Perez et al., 2018). The present study's purpose is to identify specific childhood experiences associated with criminality. The data presented on criminality and ACEs was collected from recruited …

Color Contrast: Racial And Ethnic Disparities In New York City Law Enforcement, Gina Moreno, Richard A. Espinobarros, Sheyla A. Delgado, Jeffrey A. Butts

Publications and Research

Researchers at the John Jay College Research and Evaluation Center examined racial and ethnic disparities in arrest rates across New York City neighborhoods, focusing on assault and larceny offenses. Using 911 call data and demographic controls, the study grouped neighborhoods by proportions of Black and Hispanic residents and analyzed arrest patterns. While arrests of Black and Hispanic individuals were more common in neighborhoods with higher populations of these groups, the arrest-to-resident ratios revealed disproportionate impacts, especially for larceny. The findings highlight the importance of monitoring disparities to promote equitable justice practices.

Book Review: Tracers In The Dark: The Global Hunt For The Crime Lords Of Cryptocurrency, Marion Jones

International Journal of Cybersecurity Intelligence & Cybercrime

Doubleday released Andy Greenberg’s Tracers in the Dark: The Global Hunt for the Crime Lords of Cryptocurrency in November 2022. Through vivid case studies of global criminal investigations, the book dispels myths about the anonymizing power of cryptocurrency. The book details how the ability to identify cryptocurrency users and payment methods successfully brought down several large criminal empires, while also highlighting the continuous cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement officials and criminal actors using cryptocurrency. The book is an excellent resource for law enforcement officials, academics, and general cybersecurity practitioners interested in cryptocurrency-related criminal activities and law enforcement techniques.

Navigating The Digital Frontier: The Intersection Of Cybersecurity Challenges And Young Adult Life, Hannarae Lee

International Journal of Cybersecurity Intelligence & Cybercrime

Papers from this issue advocate for empowering young adults with knowledge and tools to navigate cyberspace safely, emphasizing the necessity of heightened cybersecurity measures and proactive education. As we advance into the digital abyss, this call becomes imperative, ensuring that the young adults' experience remains a journey of growth and enlightenment, unaffected by the shadows of unseen online threats.

The Need For A Cybersecurity Education Program For Internet Users With Limited English Proficiency: Results From A Pilot Study, Fawn T. Ngo, Rustu Deryol, Brian Turnbull, Jack Drobisz

International Journal of Cybersecurity Intelligence & Cybercrime

According to security experts, cybersecurity education and awareness at the user level are key in combating cybercrime. Hence, in the U.S., cybersecurity and Internet safety workshops, classes, and resources targeting children, adolescents, adults, and senior citizens abound. However, most cybercrime prevention programs are only available in English, thus, ignoring a substantial proportion of Internet users and potential cybercrime victims—Internet users with limited English proficiency (LEP). Yet, successfully combating cybercrime requires that all computer and Internet users, regardless of their language abilities and skills, have access to pertinent cybersecurity information and resources to protect themselves online. This paper presents the results …

Cyberbullying During Covid-19 Pandemic: Relation To Perceived Social Isolation Among College And University Students, Nadya Stefani Neuhaeusler

International Journal of Cybersecurity Intelligence & Cybercrime

One tell-tale sign of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is the heavy reliance on electronic devices. Young adults in particular have indicated a greater presence on social media and high levels of loneliness during the pandemic. This trend has raised concerns about increased feelings of social isolation and reliance on technology, which could lead to more internet or computer crimes—including cyberbullying. Despite a growing body of literature, little is known about the association between cyberbullying victimization and social isolation among young adults— with even less known about this phenomenon in the context of the ongoing pandemic. Drawing on survey …

Criminal Justice Employees’ Perspectives On Barriers To Successful Prosecution Of Sex Crimes Against Women: A Qualitative Descriptive Study, Stephen Dahnkwii Paye

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

Criminal Justice Employees’ Perspectives on Barriers to Successful Prosecution of Sex Crimes Against Women: A Qualitative Descriptive Study by Stephen Dahnkwii Paye MA, Keiser University, 2018 BS, Strayer University, 2015 Dissertation Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy Criminal Justice Walden University January 20 2024 Postwar Liberia remains particularly challenged in prosecuting sexual crimes against women. As a result, women remain vulnerable to sexual assault against their person. This qualitative descriptive study aimed to explore how individuals working in the formal and informal criminal justice systems in postwar Liberia describe the barriers to …

The Effectiveness Of Counseling Juveniles And Guardians As A Measure Of Recidivism, Robert D. Johnson

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

This study explored the lived experiences and perceptions of 10 juvenile justice professionals who had interacted with juvenile offenders and their guardians. This phenomenological qualitative study aimed to examine the outcomes of functional family therapy (FFT) between juvenile offenders and their guardians and their impact on recidivism rates in the National Capital Region portion of the Washington Metropolitan area. The theoretical framework that guided this study was FFT, which focuses on family dynamics and interactions while addressing a youth’s problem behavior. During semi-structured interviews (conducted via Zoom (due to COVID-19 restrictions), participants were asked open-ended questions about their feelings, experiences, …

Recruiting, Retaining, And Advancing Women In Policing: Lessons Learned From The Iawp Gender-Responsive Policing Summit, Jessica Huff, Samantha S. Clinkinbeard, Rachael Rief, Brenna Dunlap, Inès Zamouri, Lexi Goodijohn, Caroline Meenagh, Champ Champenstein, Jane Townsley, Mirko Fernandez, Jessica Swanson

Criminology and Criminal Justice Faculty Publications

Despite persistent support for increasing gender diversity in US policing, women remain underrepresented. Yet, barriers to women in policing are not universal. Many police organizations in the USA and internationally have implemented promising gender-responsive approaches. The International and Nebraska Associations of Women Police (IAWP/NAWP) and UN Women convened a Gender-Responsive Policing Summit to share successful efforts to improve recruitment, retention, promotion, and wellness of women in policing. Researchers conducted systematic observations of Summit sessions, paying particular attention to solutions offered to advance gender-responsive policing. This instrumental case study summarizes lessons learned based on multistage inductive coding of Summit observation notes. …

Indiana Supreme Court Chief Justice Commends Work Of Iu Faculty During Annual State Of The Judiciary, James Owsley Boyd

Keep Up With the Latest News from the Law School (blog)

No abstract provided.

Prospective Hires: Examining Ex-Offender Stigma Effects On Employment, Amanda Neff

Justice Studies Theses

Formerly incarcerated persons face many barriers upon being released from prison–one of which is gaining employment. Obtaining a job can be difficult due to employers’ perceived employability of those who have been involved in the justice system. Organizational and personal characteristics of employers have been found in previous research to impact how likely an employer is to hire formerly incarcerated individuals. This thesis examines how stigma surrounding formerly incarcerated persons is perceived by employers through quantitatively examining employer demographics and their willingness to hire these individuals. This study used a mixed-model randomized sampling method for surveying employers in Bristol, Central …

Biosocial Criminology: Projected Criminal Behaviors Induced By Climate Changes, David Brown Sr.

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

No abstract provided.

A Study Of The Criminal Victimization Of Policewomen By Other Police Officers, Philip M. Stinson, John Liederbach, Chloe Wentzlof, Jordan M. Parker

Criminal Justice Faculty Publications

Our research focuses on the criminal victimization of policewomen by other police officers. The data derive from a larger nationwide study on police crime, or cases in which police officers have been arrested for the perpetration of one or more criminal offenses. The current study identifies cases involving policewomen who are victims of police-perpetrated sexual harassment, official misconduct, stalking, indecent exposure, simple and aggravated assault, and rape. The specific goals of the research are three-fold: (1) explore the nature and character of police crimes perpetrated against policewomen, (2) describe cases of police crime perpetrated against policewomen that specifically involve some …

Ask The Women In Blue: Female Officers’ Thoughts On The Recruitment And Retention Of Women In Policing, Rachael Rief, Samantha S. Clinkinbeard, Lexi Goodijohn, Trisha Rhodes

Criminology and Criminal Justice Faculty Publications

Women bring many benefits to policing but represent only 14% of sworn police in the United States. Researchers have examined different recruitment strategies, yet few have sought insight from women officers themselves. We explored women officers’ perspectives on recruiting and retaining more women in policing. Using semi-structured interviews, we asked 40 current and retired women officers how police agencies can better target women to increase their representation. Responses were analyzed using open coding techniques. Participants noted difficulty hiring amid a larger police staffing crisis. They also discussed the structure and culture of police work as barriers to the recruitment and …

Public Perceptions About Police With Beards, Dennis F. Hale

Walden Dissertations and Doctoral Studies

No abstract provided.

“He’S In Jail Now And I Don’T Feel Bad”: Analyzing Sureties’ Decisions To Report Bail Violations, Rachel Schumann, Carolyn Yule

International Journal on Responsibility

The control, supervision, and rehabilitation of criminalized people often falls on the shoulders of non-state agents and organizations. Surety bail releases are a clear embodiment of this trend, as the courts call upon relatives, friends, and employers to supervise the pre-conviction activity of people accused of a crime. According to the law, sureties must report all bail violations to the police; the resulting diffusion of responsibility is said to increase the penal state’s power and control over criminal justice-involved individuals while minimizing reputational risks. Yet how sureties carry out this role in the community remains unexplored. Using data from 36 …

Punishment, Rubina Ramji

Journal of Religion & Film

This is a film review of Punishment (2024), directed by Øystein Mamen.

Global Criminal Justice Practices And Public Safety, Rachel Hwang

Posters-at-the-Capitol

Popular political discourse in the U.S. assumes that more funding for law enforcement and prison facilities will make civilians safer, presumably by reducing crime and sense of disorder. However, studies have shown that the relationship between these factors may not be as straightforward. With the killing of George Floyd and increased media coverage of police brutality, existing literature focuses mainly on the relationship between police and crime in the U.S. The impact of incarceration (the result of procedural justice) on the community (for whom procedural justice exists) is less known, especially on a global scale. We argue that cycling people …

Optimizing Reunification Capabilities At Outdoor Music Festivals: Empowering Social Groups To Maintain Situational Awareness Through Geofencing And Geolocation, Justin Andrew Puchalsky

Theses and Dissertations

The purpose of this research was to apply Social Identity Theory concepts to a modified Technology Acceptance Model for existing application-based software technologies on android and iOS platforms in an effort to facilitate user expectations of reunification efforts for pre-planned or spontaneous evacuations of Outdoor Music Festivals (OMF). Geofencing technology combined with geolocation sharing software will enable users that “opt-in” the ability to interface, plan, and disseminate instructions when separated from their social groups. While the overarching goal will allow evacuees to maintain baseline situational/spatial awareness, the modified concept, when applied, functions as a pseudo-visual crowd analysis tool for evacuees …

Homeless Encampments On Railroad Property And Their Effect On Crime Rates: A Multiple Methods Analysis, Michael Everett Jones

Theses and Dissertations

The U.S. homeless population’s size, vulnerability, and crime victim and offender risk merit further investigation. Valuable studies relating to homelessness and crime have been completed. However, there are missing notes in which a sample populace of homeless encampment sites, and subject matter expert opinions are combined into one study. A relationship tradition exists in the criminology research arena between appearance and esthetics levels in areas as visual cues and criminality. Through the decades, variations in crime rates across different settings have resulted in research about setting appearance and changes in frequency of crimes committed there. The purpose of this study …

American Academy Of Criminal Justice Sciences 2024 Annual Meeting, Gary Kowaluk

Title III Professional Development Reports

With my Title III funds, I attended the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS) 2024 Annual Meeting in Chicago, Illinois which took place from Tuesday, March 19^th through Saturday, March 23rd. While I did not present at the conference, I used my time attending sessions to help formulate ideas about future research and to learn more about experiential learning practices, a type of teaching Lincoln University is promoting. I began the conference by attending a special two-hour training course on “crimmigration” research on Tuesday. With a focus on researching illegal immigration, the training moved into how to use participatory …

From The Deceptive Delinquent To The Illusive Illicit Alien: A Qualitative Study Of 21st Century United States Border Security Law Enforcement’S Capabilities, Competencies, And Capacities Designed To Counter Transient Criminality Recruitment, Christopher C. Palme

Theses and Dissertations

The transient criminal enterprise progressively evolved through expansion of illicit trafficking pathways throughout the 21st century. Scholars and practitioners share roles and responsibilities in missed opportunities to combat transient criminality. The Intelligence Community’s intelligence process is deficient in timely production and dissemination of their products. Starting with the transient criminality recruitment process, a correlated lack of psychosocial training programs dedicated to countering the transient crime threat exists. This study is rooted in sociological theory. It addresses Homeland Security dilemmas through the theoretical lens of sociology of security (Bajc, 2013) and is enhanced by concepts from Social Identity (Tajfel, 1979), Social …

Broadcasting Bombs: Classifying Antecedent Behaviors And Strategizing Preventative Tactics In Lone-Actor Terrorists And Mass-Murderers, Julia Varvaro

Theses and Dissertations

The modern notion of a socially isolated lone-wolf terrorist and public mass- murderer is challenged by analyzing those individuals’ pre-attack behaviors. Many of these behaviors can be explained with theories such as Social Identity, Social Network, and Social Movement Theory, which examine the changes in human behavior to understand motivations. Properly classifying certain behaviors in a radicalized individual could help identify potential risk factors indicating an impending attack, prompting better responses, and solutions to strategize tactics and policies in preventing terrorism. Using existing literature and theory as the basis, this dissertation will examine common broadcasting behaviors of individuals who have …