Week 4 Discussion: Investigation of Disparities in Sentencing [due Thurs] Week 4 Discussion: Investigation of Disparities in Sentencing

Probation officers regularly write recommendations for judges to consider when determining appropriate sentences for offenders. Regardless of whether the sentence is probation, incarceration, rehabilitation, the death penalty, or an alternative, probation officers must avoid bias and discrimination in their recommendations to reduce disparities leading to systemic injustice.

Respond to either or both of the following:

• Do you perceive discrimination in the way that sentencing is conducted in your area? Explain the impact of discriminatory sentencing policies or procedures on a specific minority group (gender, race, or ethnicity).
• Whether or not a prosecutor chooses to seek the death penalty depends on laws in place, key factors of the crime, and the prosecutor’s discretion. What disparities exist regarding those for whom prosecutors seek the death penalty? What disparities exist in sentencing?