How Mass Incarceration Has Destroyed African American Communities,
2025
San Jose State University
How Mass Incarceration Has Destroyed African American Communities, Angeliki Karvounis
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Beginning with the “Tough on Crime” movement of the 1970s, policies such as mandatory minimums, the War on Drugs, and the Three Strikes law have reinforced racial disparities in the criminal justice system. Multiple historical and systemic factors have contributed to the disproportionate imprisonment of African American individuals. This paper explores the long-term consequences of incarceration, including the erosion of family structures, the economic marginalization of affected communities, and the perpetuation of poverty and crime. The repercussions of parental incarceration on children and the challenges faced by formerly incarcerated individuals seeking reintegration into society are examples of the long-term consequences …
Human Trafficking: An Examination Of Policies And The Impact Of Trafficking On Victims,
2025
San Jose State University
Human Trafficking: An Examination Of Policies And The Impact Of Trafficking On Victims, Hannah Lyons
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Human trafficking is a pervasive and complex global issue that involves the exploitation of individuals. While there is also the trafficking of objects, this study solely focuses on sexual exploitation and forced labor of humans. This paper defines trafficking and examines the impact that trafficking has on victims’ physical and mental health. This paper also examines the intersection of human trafficking and policies designed to combat it, focusing on the effectiveness of legal frameworks and enforcement mechanisms. By analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of current anti-trafficking laws and initiatives, the paper explores how policies can be improved to better address …
The Rape Kit Backlog: Problems And Solutions,
2025
San Jose State University
The Rape Kit Backlog: Problems And Solutions, Tracey Cao
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
This literature review examines the ongoing issue of rape kit backlog in the United States. Rape kits are a means of evidence collection from victims of sexual assault that can be used in court. Across the nation, many state jurisdictions have hundreds and thousands of rape kits left untested and locked away in storage facilities. Consent for testing, police bias, and funding issues are the main issues that will be addressed. Many victims choose not to have their kits tested. Other kits never get tested due to police choosing not to submit a kit due to their bias against some …
Detection Canines: An Insight Into Investigative Working Dogs,
2025
San Jose State University
Detection Canines: An Insight Into Investigative Working Dogs, Adriana Pliego
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
In a comprehensive exploration of detection canines, this paper aims to research the depth of their utilization by many investigative agencies and fields. A relevant case is discussed to present the application of detection canines and how they are useful for investigative measures. Shedding light into the various components of detection canines, this paper will discuss desirable canine characteristics that are sought out. On the other hand, undesirable characteristics are also discussed to inform recruiters of which attributes they should opt out of. This paper continues to discuss the roles and capabilities of detection canines given their unique potential. Then, …
Comparative Analysis Of Forensic Science Systems: Scotland Vs. America,
2025
San Jose State University
Comparative Analysis Of Forensic Science Systems: Scotland Vs. America, Alec Noland
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Forensic science plays an important role in the justice system of both the United States and Scotland, but the structure, application, and effectiveness differ significantly. This research paper presents a comparative analysis of forensic science in two different legal and institutional contexts, examining differences between the two forensic science systems. This includes forensic laboratories and services, education and training, policing, court procedures, legal framework, and crime scene investigation. The analysis highlights significant differences such as Scotland’s centralized system versus America’s decentralized system, which impacts resource allocation and standardization for forensic science. Despite major differences, both countries emphasize scientific reliability, standardized …
Prisoner Reentry Into Society Viewed Through The Lens Of Women,
2025
San Jose State University
Prisoner Reentry Into Society Viewed Through The Lens Of Women, Jalak Parekh
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
In the 1970s, President Richard Nixon declared a War on Drugs and initiated a series of policies that were intended to combat the use of illegal drugs by implementing severe sentences for drug-related crimes. As a result, the focus of the criminal justice system veered away from rehabilitation efforts. Today, the U.S. criminal justice system has considerably high rates of recidivism. This paper examines the importance of successful reentry into society for formerly incarcerated women, especially those who must resume a caregiver role to their children. However, a relapse into criminal behavior seems imminent due to societal barriers in obtaining …
The Lasting Effects Of Gun Violence On Victims And Communities,
2025
San Jose State University
The Lasting Effects Of Gun Violence On Victims And Communities, Anthony Do
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Gun violence is a pressing public health and criminal justice issue with lasting effects on victims, families, and communities in the United States. The psychological impact of gun violence can contribute to conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and sleep deprivation. The issues are pronounced within marginalized or disadvantaged neighborhoods. The emergence of 3D-printed “ghost guns” presents further complications in the effort to regulate firearms. The United States stands out for its disproportionately high rates of firearm deaths. The findings in this paper highlight the urgent need for comprehensive prevention strategies that address both the current and future impacts …
The Normalization Of Clandestine Graves In Mexico,
2025
San Jose State University
The Normalization Of Clandestine Graves In Mexico, Alejandra Vela
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Clandestine graves are increasing at an alarming rate in Mexico, as cartels fight for dominance over the wealthiest territories. Those who fall victim to cartels are brutally tortured into submission or are murdered and disposed of. These graves are the preferred method of body disposal by the cartels. By disposing of various victims in hidden locations, the cartels seek to erase the existence of these individuals. Victims are reduced to only bone fragments and ash. Friends and family of those who have gone missing have created a large search organization, Madres Buscadoras, to combat the helplessness of authorities. Madres Buscadoras …
Incorporating Specialized Courses On The Prevention Of Sexual Misconduct In Policing Academies,
2025
San Jose State University
Incorporating Specialized Courses On The Prevention Of Sexual Misconduct In Policing Academies, Nina Nguyen
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
A major problem within law enforcement is police sexual misconduct (PSM), where law enforcement officers commit sexual offenses while using the power of their position. Bonds of loyalty and trust between fellow officers are strong enough that offenders have no worries about being reported, even if they are caught. Studies have shown that most offending officers were new to the field or recently completed their training at a policing academy. Since many of the officers committing PSM were fresh out of their training, it indicates that the academy is not training its recruits properly on topics of sexual assault and …
Oviposition And Immature Development Of Blowflies In Forensic Investigations,
2025
San Jose State University
Oviposition And Immature Development Of Blowflies In Forensic Investigations, Amalia Herrera-Benitez
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Forensic entomology is a subspecialty within the field of forensic science where insect evidence is analyzed to solve criminal cases. Insects begin to colonize the body, with blowflies being the first insects to arrive. Within minutes, blowflies can lay eggs on a decomposing body, and the larvae will feed once they hatch. The life cycles of blowflies are analyzed to help determine an estimated post-mortem interval (PMI), which is crucial in investigations, as it can help establish a timeline. Various factors, such as temperature and access to the body, can cause delays in the oviposition of blowflies. A delay in …
Forensic Psychology Of Serial Killers,
2025
San Jose State University
Forensic Psychology Of Serial Killers, Karla Suarez
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Many serial killers share patterns in psychological and neuropsychological disorders and behaviors. These behaviors and patterns should be recognized and acknowledged to understand why serial killers murder without remorse or guilt. It is important to discuss matters such as common patterns, typologies, and characteristics within serial killers. After looking at these essential aspects of serial killers, common neurodevelopmental disorders, brain damage, and biological epigenetics will be further explored. In order to fully assess this topic, forensic psychology and behavioral analysis are essential to aid in understanding serial killers and how their brains function to lead them to the actions that …
The Role Of Criminology In The Courtroom,
2025
San Jose State University
The Role Of Criminology In The Courtroom, Nia Mehroke
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
Criminology and expert witness testimony play a crucial role in modern-day court proceedings. Scientific data and insights utilized in criminology can assist with seeking justice and fairness. This essay aims to provide a basis for the history of criminology and define the practice. It will explore the evolution of criminology practices and how theories have developed that are still utilized today. Furthermore, it will discuss criminologists’ many contributions as expert witnesses, including the role of ethics that criminologists must follow in court. Some key ideas presented include the methodologies criminologists use to present evidence and what standard criminologists must follow …
Roger Williams University School Of Law Commencement Exercises (Program) 05-16-2025,
2025
Roger Williams University
Roger Williams University School Of Law Commencement Exercises (Program) 05-16-2025, Roger Williams University School Of Law
School of Law Commencement (1996- )
No abstract provided.
Why Bips Mattered In The Past & Will In The Future,
2025
University of North Dakota
Why Bips Mattered In The Past & Will In The Future, Chase Steinbach
Undergraduate Theses and Senior Projects
No abstract provided.
Routine Activity Theory And The Severity Of Terrorist Act,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Routine Activity Theory And The Severity Of Terrorist Act, Yiwei Song
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
Terrorist incidents have increased dramatically in the past several decades, leading to significant casualties and property damage worldwide. While prior studies grounded in lifestyle exposure theory have explored how victim demographics, lifestyle, and routine activities influence the likelihood of victimization, this study applies Routine Activity Theory to examine whether increased guardianship in the form of target security reduces the severity of terrorist incidents. Using data from 15,138 terrorist incidents in 2015 from the Global Terrorism Database (GTD), this study investigates the relationship between offender motives, target security, and the severity of attacks, measured by fatalities, injuries, and property damage. Furthermore, …
The Silent Killer In Women's Prisons,
2025
San Jose State University
The Silent Killer In Women's Prisons, Samantha Boman
Themis: Research Journal of Justice Studies and Forensic Science
If present in the body for an extended period, the human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause aberrant cells to develop in the cervix. Left undetected, these abnormalities can manifest into cancer. Incarcerated women are among the highest demographic to be diagnosed with cervical cancer - diagnoses that could be averted through HPV vaccinations, regular cervical cancer screenings, Pap smears, and comprehensive sexual education. The lack of these preventative measures points to an insufficiency of reproductive healthcare within women’s prisons. In its early stages, cervical cancer is asymptomatic. Once symptoms appear, damage to the body is irreparable. The absence of symptoms before …
Misidentified Bodies And Missing Data: Exploring Forensic Disempowerment And Skeletal Narratives Of Transgender And Gender-Diverse Individuals In The United States,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Misidentified Bodies And Missing Data: Exploring Forensic Disempowerment And Skeletal Narratives Of Transgender And Gender-Diverse Individuals In The United States, Taylor M. Flaherty
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
The bodies of transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) individuals represent a physical nexus of contempt and scrutiny. In the United States (U.S.), TGD people experience disproportionate levels of violence and premature death, contributing to a persistent epidemic of harm. Institutionalized anti-TGD biases have reinforced systemic neglect, leading to the routine exclusion of TGD individuals from research, data collection, and historical archives. The absence of state or federal initiatives to track mortality trends and risk factors among this population further exacerbates their systematic erasure. In particular, forensic scientists have traditionally relied on dichotomous indicators of sexual expression which may fail to account …
Qualitative Analysis Of The Influence Of Military Culture On The Resocialization Of Combat Veterans,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Qualitative Analysis Of The Influence Of Military Culture On The Resocialization Of Combat Veterans, Kyle N. Rodgers
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
The researcher conducted in-depth interviews with 25 combat-experienced Veterans of the Global War on Terror who fit an operational definition of successful resocialization. How do successfully resocialized combat Veterans compare with combat Veterans who became involved with the criminal justice system? Utilizing a snowball method to identify each participant, the most significant finding from these interviews was that two factors seem to differentiate the civilian and military group styles the most, which were the overwhelming importance of purpose and tribe in the lives of combat Veterans. This confirmed the hypothesis that the most significant difference between the civilian and military …
The Mindful Officer: Enhancing Officer Mental, Physical, And Social Wellness Through Resilience Training,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
The Mindful Officer: Enhancing Officer Mental, Physical, And Social Wellness Through Resilience Training, Tanya Dudinskaya
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
The issue of mental health among the U.S. population has gained national attention, with numerous wide-scale initiatives aimed at providing resources for the public. However, certain professional populations encounter unique challenges in their occupation and often lack specific support for their mental and physical health needs that stem from long-term exposure to unpredictable stressors. One population facing these issues is law enforcement. Police officers regularly experience chronic stress related to their job demands, as they manage high-pressure situations and exposure to significant trauma, all while being under increased public scrutiny in recent years. Previous research has highlighted the effects of …
Foster Children’S Repeated Disruptions: A Qualitative Analysis Of Stakeholder Insights On Failed Permanency In Foster Care.,
2025
University of Nevada, Las Vegas
Foster Children’S Repeated Disruptions: A Qualitative Analysis Of Stakeholder Insights On Failed Permanency In Foster Care., Teresa Marie
UNLV Theses, Dissertations, Professional Papers, and Capstones
This study examines factors contributing to failed permanency outcomes in the foster care system, focusing on adoptions, guardianships, and reunifications. Using strain theory as a framework, this research examines the systemic pressures and institutional barriers within dependency courts, which mirror punitive aspects of the criminal justice system. Expanding strain theory to include a meso-level analysis, the study explores how organizational practices, resource distribution, and inter-agency collaboration influence permanency outcomes. A qualitative approach utilizing semi-structured interviews with judges, attorneys, social workers, district attorneys, and healthcare professionals provides an in-depth understanding of stakeholder perspectives. This research offers actionable recommendations to address systemic …
