Criminology Level 2
Module 1 (a)
Criminology as a scientific field of study:
Science as a concept:
- Science derived from “latin” word “Scienia”
- Science is a systematic and organized body of knowledge about a specific subject.
Scientific study has two parts, namely:
- Theoretical part, focuses on explaining the how and why of the study.
- Methodological part, focuses on the methods used to find answers to questions relating to how and why.
Science can be classified into two major fields:
- Natural science, means study of natural phenomana, such as plants.
- Social science, means study of human behavior.
Criminology as a science: -- ->
- Criminology is a science that consiste of systematic and organized knowledge about crime and criminal behavior.
- Criminology became an important area of study due to the constant thread and impact of crime on society.
--- > Criminology as a science:
- Criminology has also been influenced by the study of sociology, psychology, biology, political science, economics and law.
What is a crimonologist?
Criminologist is a person who specializes in the study of criminology.
What are the key concepts in criminology
- Criminology is the field of study which focuses on different areas of crime, criminal behavior and the impact it has on society.
Criminology used scientific method to study the following: -- ->
- The nature of crime and criminal behavior.
- The extent of crime and criminal behavior, which refers to how much crime takes place.
- The cause and control of crime and criminal behavior, which refers to how we need to manage crime. -->
-- > Criminology used scientific method to study the following: -- >
-->
- Criminology includes a study of the cause and prevention of crime, as well as the rehabilitation and punishment of offenders.
- Criminology studies the various role players affected during a crime, such as offenders, the victim and society in general. -->
-- > Criminology used scientific method to study the following:
- Criminology also study, and try to explain, the judicial (legal) process.
- In short, we can define criminology as the scientific study of crime and criminal behavior within society, with specific focus on:
What does the study of criminology specifically focus on?
- Crime and criminal behavior
- The origin, development, changes and impact of laws.
- The causes and impact of crime
- Victims of crime
- Punishment and rehabilitation of offenders.
- Crime prevention
Judicial definition of crime?
- Blameworthy act which is in violation of the law
- There must be an act, which is visible and observable.
- The action must be unlawful
Module 1 (b)
Non-Judicial definition of crime?
- It is a social definition of a crime because it focuses on impact of crime on people in the society.
Crime as a violation of social norms:
- To view some behaviors as crime, and others not.
Crime as a violation of human right:
These acts are many, such as: - Deny education - Movement restriction - Sexism etc
Crime as a form of social deviance:
- Deviance behavior, is any behavior viewed as wrong in other society. - eg. In Afghanistan women have no rights or opportunities to develop themselves educationally, if women tries to do so, she is a criminal.
What is delinquency (illegal acts)
- This is habitual antisocial or illegal behavior by a person under the age of 18.
- Antisocial behavior, means annoying, disturbing and\or destructive behavior.
Meaning of Offender
- Means criminal, crook, tsotsi, lawbreaker or delinquent.
- It is also a person who commits crime, and who has been legally found guilty of the crime.
What is penology (latin “Poena)
- Means punishment of offenders, the management of correctional centres (prison) and the rehabilitation of offenders.
- It is also a strategies and processes that ends to prevent crime.
What is “victimology”
- NB: it is the area of study in criminology that involves the scientific study of victimization and victims of crime.
Victimology also includes the study of the following:
- Victimisation
- Victims
- The relationship between the crime victim and the criminal justice system.
- The influence of the media on victims of crime.
- Victim and the cost of crime, including reparation for victims.
- Victim and community support.
What is a victim
- Victim is a person who suffered physical, mental or emotional harm because of actions of another person.
Victim of crime can be divided as follows:
- Primary crime victims (Direct victim of crime)
- Secondary crime victims (Not directly affected by crime)
- Tertiary crime victims (Experience the harm of criminal behavior vicariously)
Fluctuating (change) parameters (limit) of crime
- The “word” parameter means limit, boundary, or characteristics.
- Fluctuating is the change of behavior and acts regarding crime in society.
Module 1(c)
Principle of Precedent
- The Principle of Precedent, also referred to as “stare decised”, that we use in South Africa, also influences how criminal behavior is determined.
- Precedent, means decisions made in high court judgement are viewed as law that is binding on the lower courts.
Crime as a social construct - - ->
- Criminology is the study of crime as a social phenomenon. - Criminologist study the effect of crime in the society. - They also analyzed society’s reaction to the crime
- -> Crime as a social construct:
- Criminologist, further study society to understand the causes of crime in order to address it by means of crime prevention strategies. - Crime influences economic growth, social development and sustainable development for the entire country.
Crime is the social construct because? -- >
- Crime takes place in the society, and has a direct or indirect impact on the people staying there.
- Crime affects people’s functioning within society, and affects the way they live.
-->
-- > Crime is the social construct because?
- ->
- Society can breed crime by promoting pro-criminal behavior, and creating opportunities for criminal activities.
- Crime impacts on society by affecting its economic growth and social and sustainable development.
Crime as a form of social deviance: (unacceptable)
- Deviance behavior, is any behavior viewed as wrong in other society.
- eg. In Afghanistan women have no rights or opportunities to develop themselves educationally, if any women tries to do so, she is a criminal.
What is delinquency? (illegal acts)
- This is habitual antisocial or illegal behavior by a person under the age of 18.
- Antisocial behavior, means annoying, disturbing and\or destructive behavior.
Classical criminology- ->
- In the 18th century, classical criminologist questioned the cruel punishment of crime.
- They believed in utilitarianism.
- Utilitarianism means people will do things to achieve happiness and pleasure and to avoid pain.
- ->
- -> Classical criminology
- ->
- Classical criminologist believed that punishment should be effective, it must be public, prompt and necessary.
- They also believed that punishment must fit the crime committed.
Positivist criminologist (eg. Cesare Lombroso)
- Positivist emerged in the 19th century.
- Attempted to find scientific objectivity for measurement and quantification of criminal behavior.
- They are subdivided into biological, phycological and social positivism.
Biological Criminology:
- Believed that thing such as the shape of person’s skull, and how his eyes, nose and ears look could give an indication as to whether or not the person was a criminal.
Module 2(a)
Social Positivism- - ->
- Study the influence of social factive, such as age and gender on criminal behavior.
- They discovered that social influences, such as relationships with family and friends, social economics conditions, create an environment that promotes criminal behaviors.
- ->
- - > Social Positivism: - ->
- ->
- They viewed crime as a social phenomenon that society could address by improving social and economic conditions in a community.
- - > Social Positivism:
- ->
- They believed that it was possible to link criminal causality to the quality of a person’s relationship to social structures, such as family, friends and peers.
-Socialization means how a person learns to become a member of society.
- Social criminologist were the first to link crime with alcohol abuse.
Conflict criminologist
- They were introduced by Karl Marks in his book called ‘The communist manifesto’
- He believed that conflict was as a result of harsh working condition on the people, and explotation of working class.
Critical Criminologist: - ->
- They believed that political power creates crime.
- They also believed that discrimination and unfair treatment of the political and economic structures caused criminal behavior among the poor working class.
- -> Critical Criminologist:
- -> - They further promoted the empowering of communities by means of developmental progammes, and the removal of unfair laws, community policing and community courts.
Feminist Criminologist:
-Focused on discrimination of women. - They felt that crimes against women such as rape, domestic violence, were not effectively dealt with by police and other members of the criminal justice system.
Three general areas that received the most attention in feminist theories:
- The victimization of women.
- Gender differences in crime, and
- Different and unfair treatment of females by the justice system.
Risk factors associated with criminal behavior: - ->
- Low income
- Low education qualification
- High unemployment
- A large number of guns in communities.
- Rapid urbanization, with necessary infrastructures such as (housing, schools and health services) to support all the people’s needs.
- -> Risk factors associated with criminal behavior:
- Multicaltural population.
- High rate of alcohol
- Big population of young people.
- Repeat victimization especially of young people.
International development of victimology: - - >
- Victimology is an area of study within criminology that involves the scientific study of victims of crime.
-The focus was on the interaction between the victim and the offender.
-The treatment of victims resulted in the establishment of victim support centers. - - >
- - > International development of victimology:
- - >
- Support of victims is also a focus of most criminologist, social workers, medical professionals, phycologist and politicians.
Module 2(b)
The development of criminology in Africa- - >:
-Compulsory education for everyone;
- A reduction in unemployment and poverty.
- The creation of employment opportunities.
- The reduction of the urbanization rate by developing rural areas.
- - >The development of criminology in Africa- - >
-The reduction of corruption, especially amongst leaders,
-Prompting investigation of crimes, and the arrest and prosecution of suspects by competent law officials.
-Short, sharp and shock prison sentences
-The restoration and strengthening of family values
The development of criminology in Africa:
-It will be based on colonialism
- Crime and imprisonment of many people
-Criminal behavior and poverty as a result of poor economy
Strategies, models and programmes to reduce and prevent crime:
-Received information from the news papers, radios and television to be aware that crime is committed.
-They hired more police, and make courts processes to become effective to combat crime, did not know the causes of crime.
- Crime is caused by poverty, unemployment, socio-economic reasons.
Crime prevention strategies:- - >
-NB: South African’s National Crime Prevention Strategy(NCP’s) is the strategy used to reduce, and aim to address the causes of crime, contributing factors and risks associated with crime.
-To guide crime prevention programmes, a distinction was made between:
Crime prevention strategies:- - ->
-Primary, secondary and tertiary approaches to crime prevention
- NB: Drawing on page 24 (read)
-Primary prevention focuses on environmental factors that can cause crime, such as streetlight(not working) and urban renewal not taking place.
- -> Crime prevention strategies:.
-Secondary crime prevention includes parenting programmes, development of social skills and healthy recreational activities.
-Tertiary crime prevention focuses on offenders, and aims at preventing them from breaking the law again.
Crime prevention models and approaches are as follows:.
- The social crime prevention models,
- The biophysical crime prevention model
- They psychological prevention model
- Integrated crime prevention model
Organs of state involved in the administration of justice:- - ->
-NB: Criminal justice services or sectors:
-South African Police Services
-The Courts of law
-Department of Correctional Services.
-The Role and function of SAPS in the administration
Objectives of policing Act 200 of 1993(Constitution)
- ->Organs of state involved in the administration of justice.
-Prevent crime
- Combat crime
- Investigate crime
- Maintain public order
- Protect and secure the people and their property, and
- Uphold and enforce the law.
Visible policing:- - >
-Combat crime by being visible
-Responsive (react in crime)
-Police patrols
Protection and security services:
-Provide security services such as court buildings etc
-To guard important buildings and places such as port of entry and railway stations
- - >Visible policing:.
Crime intelligence:
-Gathering, analysis and management of information on crime,
-Provide information for other divisions in the South African Police Services (to fight crime)
Module 2(c)
Detective services:- - >
-NB: Detective services are responsible for two tasks, namely_
-The family violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit (FCS)
-The Commercial Branch.
- ->Detective Services. - ->
-It is the task of the Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit to provide services, and to take care of the sensitive needs of child victims.
-They are responsible for the policing of, amongst others, family violence, child protection, sexual offences and forensic services.
- ->Detective services
-The purpose of the Commercial Branch is to combat, investigate and prevent commercial crimes, such as theft.
-The Serious Economic Offences Unit takes care of more serious economic offences, such as organized crime and cash in transit robberies.
Criminal records and forensic science services:
-The division is responsible for criminal records and forensic services.
-They study evidence that comes from a crime scene, such as (fingerprint, blood, fibre) to assists police investigation.
-Crime stop:
-Encourage the public to contribute any piece of information that can assists with combatting crime.
Roles and functions of South African courts of law in administration of justice:- - >
- ->
-The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development manage South Africa courts and legal system.
-The aim is to support and protect the Constitution of SA, that is the Republic of South Africa Act 200 of 1993.
-South African Courts is structured as follows:
Constitutional court:- - >
-The highest court in the land.
-Decides constitutional matters.
-It's serve as court of appeal in constitutional matters.
-Has influences on the constitutional matters.
-Decisions taken must be applied in all the courts.
- ->Constitutional court:
-Consist of President(Chief Justice),deputy president and nine judges.
Supreme Court of Appeal
-Hear appeals from the high courts.
-Highest court of appeals
-Can decide all criminal and civil cases on appeal.
-Can decide appeals on constitutional matters, except matters that only the Constitutional Court can decide on.
-Chief justice heads the Supreme Court of Appeals.
The High court
-It has appeal jurisdiction
-It can function as a court of first instance
-A Judge President heads a high court.
-Each high Court has jurisdiction within a particular provincial area.
-High court can decide on constitutional matters and appeals.
The Regional court:- - >
-Justice Minister divided the country into magisterial districts, and created regional division consisting of districts.
-Each province has a regional court.
-Regional court can try any criminal offence
- - >The Regional court: - ->
-Director of Public Prosecution can decides if accused should be prosecuted in a regional court or a high court.
-Regional courts only try criminal cases
Lower courts: - - >
-Magisterial districts are grouped into 13 clusters, headed by chief magistrates.
-Function as a court of first instances
-They have jurisdiction to hear all matters, except murder, treason and rape.
Module 2(d)
- - >Lower courts:
-Magistrates are the presiding officers in the lower courts.
-They can hear appeals from the courts of chiefs and headmen
Special courts:
-Special courts have been instituted for the purpose of specialized litigation.
-Such courts are Labour courts and Labour Appeal courts, court for income tax appeals, commercial court, land claims court and children’s courts.
Role and functions of Department of Correctional Services(IDCS) in administration of justice.- - >
-Safe keeping of offender
-Rehabilitation and correction of criminal behavior
-Administration of prisons, community correction sentences as well as parole supervision.
- - >Role and functions of Department of Correctional Services(IDCS) in administration of justice.
-Divided into maximum risk facilities, medium risk facilities, female correctional centers and juvenile detention centers.
- - >Role and functions of Department of Correctional Services (IDCS) in the administration of justice.- - >
-Maximum risk facilities: House dangerous prisoners with long sentences.
-Medium security correctional centres: Houses inmates with shorter sentences, or inmates who are transferred to a medium facility after completion of a large section of their sentence.
- ->Role and functions of Department of Correctional Services (IDCS) in the administration of justice.- - >
-Female correctional centres: Are used for the detention of female offenders, they keep their babies and young children with them up to the age of two years. DCS takes responsibility for their food, clothing and health care.
- - > Role and functions of Department of Correctional Services (IDCS) in the administration of justice.- - >
-Juvenile correctional centres: keep offenders under 21, it took special emphasis their education and rehabilitation.
-Community correction: offenders get to serve their sentence in the community under certain conditions, and under the control and supervision of correctional officials.
- - >Role and functions of Department of Correctional Services (IDCS) in the administration of justice.
This include house arrests, community service, victim compensation and attending rehabilitation programmes.
Parole supervision:
-He or she may not change his address or workplace without permission,
-He or she may not commit any further crime.
-He or she must attend rehabilitation and support programmes.
Key objectives of the DCS are:
-The implementation of court sentences with the aim of rehabilitating the offender.
-Breaking the cycle of crime
Security risk management. (safe custody of offenders)
Provide offender rehabilitation by means of client-center rehabilitation programmes.
Module 2(e)
Continuation of key objectives of DCS
-Provide guidance, support to probationers and parolees within the community.
-Provision of corrective and development measures to the offender.
- ->Continuation of key objectives of DCS- - >
-Reconciliation of the offender with the community with the aim of re-integration of the offender into his/her community of origin.
-The enhancement of the productive capacity of offender.
- - >Continuation of key objectives of DCS
-The promotion of healthy family relationships
-The assertion of discipline within the correctional environment, with the aim to developing self-discipline amongst inmates.
The contribution criminology makes to society - ->
The criminologist’s function to study and explain crime and victimization:
-The collection of scientific information on crime patterns and trends,
-Studying factors that change laws in society, such as political, economic or social changes in a country.
- ->The contribution criminology makes to society:- - >
-The development of theories to understand what causes crime,
-To study the nature and cause of specific crime patterns(violence, organized crime, sexual offences, and so on)
Studying prisons and offender rehabilitation
- ->The contribution criminology makes to society:
-Researching the nature and cause of victimization.
Criminologist’s role to develop and implement policy:- - >
NB: Policy is a plan of action used to address a problem. It is required to deal with crime and any negative situation.
The cycle consists of 6 steps:
NB: Read steps on pg.37
- - >Criminologist’s role to develop and implement policy:
-Criminologist can help policy makers, and can participate during the process of policy implementation
The criminologist’s role in the implementation and evaluation of crime prevention strategies:
The South African’s National Crime Prevention Strategy (NCPS) aims to prevent crime through a strategy that is based on a four-pillar approach:
-Changing the criminal justice system,
-Moral regeneration to develop anti-criminal public values and attitudes
- - >The criminologist’s role in the implementation and evaluation of crime prevention strategies:- - >
-Crime prevention through environmental design, and
-Addressing cross-border crimes.
The role and contribution of criminologists in sustainable social, economic and environmental development:
-NB: This aims to improve the living conditions of all people by addressing poverty, gender equality and health care for all.
Social progress:
- ->Criminologist through research and policy development on thesesss topics can assist in sustainable social development
- ->
-The link between poverty and crime
The impact of crime on the quality of South African citizens’ lives victimization
Module 2(f)
Economic development:- ->
-Criminologists can contribute to sustainable economic development:
-By analyzing the negative impacts of crime and corruption on economy,
-Can also assist with policy development to address this problem.
- ->Environmental protection:
-Studies the impact of environmental crime, such as the pollution of river systems, on the environment.
-They research on sustainable environmental development, and used it for policy formulation and evaluation, and programme development
The role and functions of criminologist in the crinimal justice- ->
Safety and security:
-Deal with policing or law enforcement, and
-Crime prevention, especially social crime prevention
Criminologists contributions:
-Research on crime causation, trends and statistics
-Assist victims of crime,domestic violence.
- ->The role and functions of criminologist in the crinimal justice
-NB: Criminologist are appointed in SAPS special investigation units.
The role and functions of criminologists in courts of law- ->
-Compile reports aimed at explaining what motivated an offender to commit a crime.
-In pre sentence reports,they make recommendations of best sentence option.
-They act as probation officers and, evaluate candidates for an alternative sentence
- -> The role and functions of criminologists in courts of law
- -> -Can act as expects witnesses in court
Can act as expects witnesses in court
-Assessment (admission, in-depth and risk assessment)
-Profiling (recommendations for rehabilitation intervention and programmes placement)
-Treatment plans, and pre-parole assessment
DiscCriminologists ethical within society and the criminal justice system
-Be committed to improving the general well-being
-Be careful not to recreate forms of past social unfairness,discrimination, oppression, or harassment
-Be honest enough to recognize their limits
-Be careful not to be incompetent, unethical or dishonest
- - ->DiscCriminologists ethical within society and the criminal justice system
- ->
-Always respect the rights and dignity of all people, including the crime, people accused or convicted of committing crimes, student and research subjects
-Not discriminate people based on age, gender, race, ethnicity, national origin,
-culture, religion, sexual orientation, health or physical condition,
-or domestic status.
Crimino-ethical requirements for collection of information
-Should not be emotionally involved in their work, or with the people they work with or for.
-During the interview of clients, should be professional, by not asking leading questions.
-Should respect right to confidentiality.
.
Crimino-ethical responsibilities policy or treatment recommendations
-Conduct research by using scientific research methodologies.
-Accurately document the research process
-They should not lie about their research, or omit some of their research findings, which could influence the outcomes of their research.
Crimino-ethical responsibilities of the Criminologist in the justice systems
- Social justice: is an important focus of the criminal justice system
-Social injustice: is discrimination, oppression, or harassment in their own work
-
Module 2(g)
The duty to increase social justice in an ethical responsibility by Criminologist- - ->
-In presenting their work fully and accurate report,
-To devote his or her professional knowledge and skills in a scientific way.
-They should act professionally when collecting information clients, and honestly, accurately and fairly present.
- - ->The duty to increase social justice in an ethical responsibility by Criminologist
-They should always acknowledge the fact that their recommendations may have a negative or positive impact on their clients’ lives, and society in general.
-assess their clients’ criminogenic needs and risks in order to make effective treatment recommendations.
- - ->The duty to increase social justice in an ethical responsibility by Criminologist
-They should reassess clients on a regular basis to monitor their progress and make further treatment recommendations.
-They should assess an offender ‘s risk of repeat offending, in order to make pre-release recommendations.
Victim, offender and ecological rights
-Science says that to be a human, you must be a member of the genus Homo, and of the species Homo sapiens.
-Genus means a class, group or kind that has common attributes or characteristics, usually consists of more than one species
- ->Victim, offender and ecological rights:
-Homo mean the genus of bipedal primates
-Species mean a major subdivision of a genus.
-Homo sapiens mean the species of bipedal primates to which modern humans belong, characterized by specific brain capacity, dependence on language, and creation and utilization of complex tools.
The importance of fundamental human rights
-Protection of the community
-The Bill of Rights acknowledges three role player, namely the individual, the community and the state.
The Rights and the responsibilities of individuals in South Africa- - ->
-The Right to human dignity
-The right to life
-The right to freedom and security of the person
-No slavery or forced labour
-The right to privacy
-The right to freedom of speech and expression
-Freedom of religion, belief and opinion
-Freedom assembly, demonstration and petition.
-Freedom of association
- - - >The Rights and the responsibilities of individuals in South Africa:
-The right to be a citizen of the country where you are born
- Freedom of movement and residence, and
-The right to use the language of your choice, and to participate in the cultural life of your choice.
The victims rights according to the Bill of Rights- - ->
- ->
-A right not be discriminated against, due to, amongst others, race, ethnic group, colour or sex.
-A right to life, human dignity and freedom and security from all forms of violence
-The right to be equal in front of the law,
-A right to have his or her case heard,
Module 3(a)
- - -> The victims rights according to the Bill of Rights- - ->
-A right to make use of public services (victim support services), and
- A right to receive information.
the rights of the following responsibilities.
-Respect , and not discriminate against other people
-Maintain relations aimed at promoting, safeguarding and reinforcing mutual respect and tolerance.
Crime Victims responsibilities
-To report the crime in order to protect other citizens, and
-To preserve and strengthen positive African cultural values in his or her relations with other members of society.
Rights of victims in the Service Charter of Crime in South Africa- - - >
-Victims Charter was approved by Cabinet on 1 December 2004.
-It promoted equal rights and freedoms for all citizens.
-The right to be treated with fairness and respect for the victim’s dignity and privacy.
-The right to offer information
- The right to receive information
- ->Rights of victims in the Service Charter of Crime in South Africa
- The right to protection
- The right to assistance
- The right to compensation and restitution.
The responsibilities of criminal justice - ->
- Their service should be quick, polite and professional
-Should not discriminate against any victim.
-They should respect the victims’ rights to offer information
-They should make the efforts to keep the victim informed of his or her right in the court proceedings
- ->The responsibilities of criminal justice
-the protection of the victim or witness in intimidation, harassment and attempted bribery
- Should refer victims to available social, health and counselling services
- They should inform crime victims of their rights, assist them to apply for compensation and restitution.
- ->The responsibilities of criminal justice
-Should ensure that copies of the Victims’ Charter is available at courts, offices of the Department of Correctional Services, police stations and offices of victim service provider
Complaints mechanism for the violation of crime victims’ rights
-Victims of crime have the right to complain if their rights are violated
Organisations that lodge victim's complaints
-The Public Protector office
-The South African Human Rights Commission
-The Commission on Gender Equality
-The Independent Complaints Directorate
-Metropolitan police offices
-The Health Profession Council of South Africa
-A lawyer of their own choice, and at own expense
Obstacles accessing the criminal justice system by vulnerable groups
-The vulnerable group such as women and children have difficulties in receiving justice because most of them are found in rural areas.
-Cases such as domestic violence and sexual abuse are not receiving attention required due to police officials who are nor properly trained in that area.
Victim services and resources in accordance with the Victims’ Charter- - ->
The South African Police Service:
- compile adequate crime reports.
-Take statements in the language of the victim
-Can refer the victim for medical attention
-
Module 3(b)
- ->Victim services and resources in accordance with the Victims’ Charter
-Prosecutors and officers ensure that victims rights are not violated
-Court officials protect the victim from victimization
Courts of law
The prosecutor and officer of the court ensure that the trial is conducted in such a way as not to violate the crime victim’s.
-Prosecutor assists the victim during his or her testimony
-The court protects the victims of the crime from victimization.
-Court assists victims to claim travelling expenses.
Social services
-Social workers, volunteers support the crime victim during the trial.
-Assist victims to report the crime
-assist victims to prepare for trial by explaining court procedures.
-Provide counselling to victims or the other service providers.
Health care workers
-Conduct medical examination
-Write medical report
-This report is used to decide if further medical reports is necessary
Correctional services officials
-They can request a crime victim to attend a parole board
-This can determine if the offender can be released on parole.
-They should also inform the crime victim of the offenders’ possible escape, transfer or release, if requested to do so by the victim.
Department of education.
- Should render counselling
- Or any other service required with the institution
Non-governmental organizations (NGO)s
-The family and Marriage Association of SA(FAMSA),
-Community-based organizations
-The Child Witness Centres
-The People Opposing Women Abuse (POWA) and
-The Rape Crisis Centre
The role and value of witnesses in the Criminal Justice System
-Informants who provide information to the police.
-Innocent bystanders who have witnessed a crime being committed.
-The crime victim.
-Witnesses involved in criminal activities, and act as a state witness for the state, against the other accused.
Offenders’ rights and responsibilities.
-Not to be deprived of freedom without a good reason.
-Not to be detained without trial
-To be free from forms of violence ,
-Not to be tortured in any away;
-Not to be treated or punished in a cruel, inhuman or humiliating way
Ecological rights and responsibilities
-The right of SA citizen’s to live in an environment that is conducive to their well-being is protected.
-Rights related to environment is called a green rights
We can protect the environment by doing the following
-The prevention of pollution,the destruction of nature
-The protection of valuable sources
-Sustainable development and natural resources (such as minerals, and water) promoting economic and social development
Module 4(a)
The responsibilities of criminal justice officials in upholding ecological rights
-Marine (sea) and coastal (beach) enforcement (the ‘blue’ issues),
-Biodiversity (all living things), and
-Conservation (protection of plants and animals)
NB: it is their duty to do routine inspections,investigations, seize evidence,arrest offenders
Risk factors that contribute to crime- - ->
-Genetic make-up, how you look, your height, race and personality
-Genetic make-up can also influence your predisposition to certain behaviours
-Hereditary factor are genetic material passed down by your parents before you were born.
- how you are going to look and who you are going to be.
- - ->Risk factors that contribute to crime
-The environment contributes towards your hereditary factors.
-Children who have offending parents are likely to commit crime
-But children with loving parents, chances are very slim to commit crime.
Prenatal(Before birth)
-Exposure to smoking , alcool abuse and drugs from the mother .
- Violence and abuse during pregnancy can also contribute to crime.
-The extend to which the baby in the mother's womb feels loved and care for
The socialization of a child during his or her early development
The following factors influence a child’s value and behavior
-PeeFamily (especially parents or caregivers)
-r (friends)
-The media
Other risk factors that can play a role in causing criminal behavior
-Parent-child relationship and parenting styles
-Association with delinquent peers, and
-Alcohol and drug abuse
The influence of biophysical defects on crime
Disorder mean something which is imperfect, or has shortcoming or broken.
-Physical (body)
-Psychological (mind)
-Chemical (chemical balance in body)
Neurological (nervous system)
Different types of disorders --- >
-Biochemical disorder
-Neurological disorder
-Biophysical disorder divided into physical(body) and psychological(mind)disorder.
-The biophysical disorder is caused by factors such as viruses, trauma or accidents, or genetically transferred disorders.
--- >Different types of disorders
-Chemical disorder are caused by an imbalance(too little or too much) chemicals in a body.
-Neurological disorder is caused by disturbances in the structure or function of the nervous system.
-These disorders can include migraine, headache, cerebral palsy, spine, stroke, brain tumour, and (ADHD)
--- >Different types of disorders
NB: These disorders do not cause criminal behavior, these cause behavior such as impulsivity( desires without considering the consequences)
-In this regards people affected can often result in frustration, anger and low self-esteem.
--- >Different types of disorders
Disorders have two exceptions according to the research:
-Conduct disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder ODD; and
-Antisocial personality disorder
Module 4(b)
Conduct disorder and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD)
-Disorder is associated with violation of other people’ basic rights and society norms.
-Behavior include cruelty to animals
-Running away from home
-Destruction of property
-Committing violent crimes
-Stealing
-truancy
Possible cause of disorder are as follows - - ->
-Having a parent with a personality disorder or substance abuse(alcohol or drug) disorder.
-Being abused or neglected
-Harsh or inconsistent(unpredictable) discipline
-Lack of supervision by parents or caregivers
-Poor relationship with one or both parents
- - ->Possible cause of disorder are as follows
-Family instability, such as moving and changing schools frequently
-Parents with a history of ADHD, oppositional defiant disorder or conduct problems;
-Financial problems
-Peer rejection; and Exposure to violence.
Antisocial personality disorder - - ->
-This disorder applies to people over the age of 18.
-Such people are referred to as sociopaths.
-They are not concern with rules and values.
-They frequently violate society’s rules and the rights of others.
- - -> Antisocial personality disorder
-They cannot keep their jobs, managing their money or being responsible parents.
-Cannot stay in a long-term relationship
-They are frequently involve in alcohol and drug abuse.
-Always commits acts that are unlawful.
Personal or individual factors that can contribute to crime
-Family stress, such as conflict, divorce, or abuse
-Stress in communities, such as gangs and vigilantism; and
-Victimization, such as being a victim of crime
Depression as risk associated with criminal behavior
-Loss of interest in activities
-Losing or gaining weight
-Loss of emotional expression (feeling flat or sad)
-Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, helplessness or anxiety;
-Thoughts of death,suicide,suicided attempts, drug abuse
Aggression as a risk factor associated with crime
-Aggression is an act or thread design to cause injury\fear
-Cause murder or dead and physical harm to victims
-Caused an impulsive and unintentional crime
-Can also result in brutal mob attacks on suspected offenders
The relationship between poor self-concept and crime
-Having low opinion of oneself, one’s abilities, one’s worth.
-Friends will influence such person to be involve in committing crime.
-They abuse alcohol and drugs to give the courage, and cope in life.
Micro-social crime risk factors
-There is micro-factor, such as the family and the macro-factor such as the community.
-Family prepares a person for life
-Teaches you what is right and wrong
-Guide how to act towards other
-To be away from the family a person learn values .
The family structures as risk for the causation of criminal behavior - - ->
-Nuclear families (fathers, mother and children)
-Single-parents families
-Step-families(families created when a man and a woman marry, and have their own children from a previous marriage)
-Gay families (two parties of the same gender marry or have a relationship with each other)
Module 4(c)
- - ->The family structures as risk for the causation of criminal behavior
-Orphaned children living together in a family unit (they are usually cared for by carefully selected, paid caregivers) and
-Child-headed households (older siblings take care of the younger one in the absence of parents)
The link between conflict in the family and criminal behavior
-Conflict and break-up in a marriage
-Constant conflict between family members
-Neglect and insensitivity from the parents towards the children’s emotional needs; and
-Unacceptable and criminal behavior of parents
Relationship between parenting styles and criminal behavior
-A punitive and authoritarian parenting, style,
-A lax or tolerant parenting style;
-An erratic(unpredictable) parenting style; and
-A firm, but fair parenting style.
Punitive and authoritarian parenting style
-Parent believe in tight rules and harsh discipline.
-Closely monitor their children’s behavior
-Severe punishment for any offence
-No room for emotional development
-Children learn self-control, but very few skills to assist them with social contact and relationship.
Lax or tolerant parenting style
- Parents are very caring and nurturing
-Will encourage and support their children
-Do not believe in discipline and rules, children do what they want to do.
-Children do not have chance to learn self-control.
- Parenting style can be link with causation of criminal behavior.
Erratic parenting style
-This parenting style is characterized with inconsequent discipline.
-Parents cannot decide if they want to follow a punitive and authoritarian, or lax and tolerant parenting style.
-Children feel confused and insecure, because they don’t know what is expected of them.
Firm but fair parenting style
-Parents believe in firm rules together with a lot of love and support.
-Children learn self-control and socially acceptable behavior within a caring and supportive environment.
-Children have opportunity to learn pro-social behavior.
Social economic factors in the family as risk- - ->
-Children run the risk of becoming part of a culture of poverty.
-It is characterized by broken homes and disrupted family life, alcohol and drug abuse and feelings of helplessness.
-They view themselves as helplessness.
- - ->Social economic factors in the family as risk
-These people often view themselves as victims, and feel as if they are not part of society.
-They turn not to trust social institutions, such as government, the police and health care agencies.
Macro-social crime risk factors
Macro-social factors as risk for criminal causation NB: These are factors in the community that could be associated to the causation of crime
Communities are made up of various formal and informal groups - - ->
-Formal groups, such as state organizations NGS’s and community-based organizations with the aim of rendering a specific services.
-Informal groups, such as soup kitchen, literacy groups and play groups for children do not have a formal structure
Module 4(d)
- - ->Communities are made up of various formal and informal groups
NB: A general culture that promotes crime exists within these communities groups, such as drug dealers, syndicates and corrupt government officials.
The influence of peer groups on criminal causation
-Peers are one of the groups that have the biggest influence on a person’s pro-social or delinquent socialization.
Lifestyle patterns as crime risk factors
-People who follow destructive life patterns learn to have negative attitude towards life.
-This behavior acts as a wall around the, resulting in a street-wise, survival-centered lifestyle, characterized by emotions of anger mistrust, isolation and hopelessness.
The effect of the media on criminal behavior - - - >
-The media (television, radio and newspapers) show us a lot of crime, such as violent crime which can influence children to imitate and learn to commit crime.
-Violent movies or videos can promote criminal violence which people can imitate and receive violent behavior.
- - ->The effect of the media on criminal behavior
-The research has also found that media coverage may encourage criminal behavior.
Techniques for measuring crime and victimization
Different techniques for measuring crime and victimization The difference between official and non-official crime statistics Official crime statistics
Police crime statistics are based on three different sources
-Crime that has been reported to the police by crime victims or other persons.
-The reporting of a crime by an organization or third party, such as banks, medical professional, social workers, and so on, and
-Police officials who record the reported crimes
Non-official crime statistics
-crime-victim surveys (complement police statistics)
-Self reported studies (give further information)
-Crimes that are not reported to the police
-The cause of crime and How well the police are doing their job
Limitation of crime statistics
-Someone must see that a crime has been committed
-Someone must report the crime to the police, and
-A police official must then accurately record the crime.
-NB: Incorrect statistics is caused by under-reporting and under-recording.
Under-reporting of crime information - - ->
-Many crime victims do not believe that there is a purpose of reporting the crime to the police.
-Victims may believe that the crime is minor
-They also believe that they will not achieve anything.
- - ->Under-reporting of crime information
-They protect the offender because they know him or her
-They may also fear revenge from the offender
-The way police treat the victims during the reporting
Module 5(a)
Under-recording of crime information - - ->
-The recording system is difficult, and police officers are not properly trained in using it.
-Delays in getting information from non-computerized stations, and
-The high turnover in skilled personnel due to resignations causes inconsistency in the capturing of information.
- - ->Under-recording of crime information
-People trapped in culture poverty always view themselves as victims
-They turn not to trust social institutions, such as government.
-Such people are scared to report crime
-People living in rural areas are uneducated.
Measuring criminal victimization - - ->
Techniques for measuring criminal victimization:
-Measuring can be made by means of victim surveys and self-reported studies.
-Self-reported studies is focused on a specific type of crime, such as murder, robbery and rape.
The focus falls on the victims of crime, rather than the offender or the crime.
- - ->Measuring criminal victimization
-Victim surveys can give people’s emotional experiences, as well as further victimization during their dealing with the police or courts.
-Criminal victimization can also be measured by using questionnires or interviews.
The strengths of criminal victimization measuring techniques - - ->
-Criminal victimization is measured using scientific research techniques and methodologies.
-The measure are that information collected from the public’s point of views, rather than that of the police and courts.
- - ->The strengths of criminal victimization measuring techniques
-The analysis include descriptive information, such as answers to what, where and how the crime happened.
-The information can help with the reduction and prevention strategies for specific areas and specific crimes.
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Module 6(a)
Limitations of criminal victimization measuring techniques - - >
- The surveys do not record data on victimless crimes.
- Victim surveys cannot record information about a crime if the victim does not recognize that he or she was a victim of a crime, such as in some cases of domestic violence.
-
- - ->Limitations of criminal victimization measuring techniques
-Victims may not mention crimes that they see as unimportant, like petty theft, minor vandalism and even less serious assaults.
-Victims may not always be able to remember, or talk about, details of their victimization.
Defining crime reduction and prevention- - >
Definition of crime reduction and prevention
-Crime prevention is defined as measures that authorities, communities, businesses and individuals take to prevent crime.
- Crime control refers to the actions that the organizations in the crime justice system (SAPS) take to address and reduce crime.
- - ->Defining crime reduction and prevention
-It also includes crime prevention actions taken by the government, communities, businesses and individuals.
-Crime prevention activities aim to address the problem by means of educational campaigns and socio-economic upliftment of people.
- - ->Defining crime reduction and prevention
-Crime reduction aim to address crime by means of catching and prosecuting offenders to prevent further crime from happening.
-Formal and informal programmes aimed at crime prevention and reduction
-These programmes are namely primary, secondary and tertiary levels
The multidimensional approach to crime prevention:- - ->
-Governmental organization should work together to implement crime prevention strategies.
-More than one crime preventions strategies should be used at the same time, such as education together with environmental design.
- - >The multidimensional approach to crime prevention:
-Crime prevention strategies theories that study the causes of crime, crime trends and crime patterns.
-Attention should be given to urban communities, informal settlements and rural areas.
- - >The multidimensional approach to crime prevention:
-Crime prevention strategies should be planned properly and evaluated to measure their effectiveness.
Role players involved in crime reduction and prevention:- - ->
-SAPS
-Department of Justice
-Department of Correctional Service
- Social Development
- Department of Education
- - ->Role players involved in crime reduction and prevention:
-Community Policing Forums
-Businesses
- Security companies
- NGO’s and
- Churches
-NB: Read National Crime Prevention Strategy on page 124
Module 6(b)
Community Policing Forums
-CPF identify policing needs in a specific community, and to deal with root cause of crime in that community.
-The community’s role is to attend the CPFs, and to discuss action plans for dealing with crime.
Community Policing Forums
-It is furthermore the responsibility of the community to provide information on crime and criminals to SAPS to prevent crime in their community.
-They can also participate in neighborhood initiative, such as the Adopt-a-Cop project or meighbourhood watch programme.
Businesses
- Business Against Crime was established in 1996(BAC)
- BAC believes that, because businesses are the economic engine of a society, they are directly and indirectly touched by crime.
- They represent businesses and assist with the identification of important areas in crime prevention.
- -> Businesses
-They also assist with the implementation of crime prevention projects and programmes in communities.
Security institutions
-Crime reaction-security companies offer armed response in reaction to the triggering of a home or business alarm.
-Crime prevention – neighbourhood patrols (visible policing)
-Catching offenders companies who focus on vehicle security, assist the police to capture offenders.
Non-governmental organization (NGOs) - - ->
-NGOs play an important role in crime reduction and prevention.
-NGOs are no-profit agencies, any government or private organization.
-They aim is to address social problems.
-They render service to victims of crime and offenders,that aim to prevent crime.
- - ->Non-governmental organization (NGOs)
-NB: NGOs such as NICRO AND Khulisa focus specifically on services to offenders and crime prevention programmes.
The roles of the family and caregiver to reduce or prevent crime:- - ->
-Crime prevention literary begin at home
-Various crime, such as domestic violence and sexual abuse are committed within families.
-Families act as socialization agent, to teach children pro-social or delinquent values and norms.
-Socialization of children is also the role of caregivers.
- - ->The roles of the family and caregiver to reduce or prevent crime
-The government recognizes that the family forms the core society.
-if the families are corrupt result in corrupt communities.
-Government and non-governmental institutions focus on educational programmes aimed at moral regeneration within families and communities
Faith-based organization
-They renders service to victims of crimes.
-Development of pro-social values and norms
-outreach programmes
-They visit prisons in order to support and render religious care services to offenders.
-Act as glue to keep communities together addressing problems in society that lead to crime.
Define stress