- Published: December 29, 2021
- Updated: December 29, 2021
- University / College: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Level: Undergraduate
- Language: English
- Downloads: 31
Theories of crime causation James (2003) provides that rehabilitation of chronic offenders is possible with the use of effective programs, techniques, and institutions. In order to reduce recidivism in these individuals, it becomes necessary to provide them with purpose and integrate them into the society in order to abstain from criminal activities. It is, therefore, clear that rehabilitation works for chronic offenders, but the society must also assist the process of rehabilitation. This is because rehabilitation only prepares the individual to get back to the society and it is the society that accepts the individual back. Other social factors that affect the individual determine recidivism of the individual (James 2003). Therefore, it is imperative to consider these factors in the rehabilitation process to ensure its success. Although rehabilitation works, the effectiveness of this method does not quite do away with recidivism, and it becomes necessary to adopt measures that prevent the occurrence of crime.
Prevention of crime is a concept that works effectively in the reduction of crime. The police oversee the task of prevention of crime, and as such, they must focus on prevention of crime. This implies, therefore, that the main objective of the police is the protection of innocent lives from criminals and prevention of crimes against these innocent individuals. However, in the execution of this duty the police officers should operate within the law and at the same time ensure the protection of the innocent (Gordon 1998). Additionally, the police officers should also handle the criminals in a manner that conforms to the provisions of law relating to such individuals. This situation puts the police in a tough position and implies that, in the balance between protecting the innocent and upholding the law, the police must act prudently. Thus, the police officers should protect the innocent while upholding the law.
Reference list
Gordon Hughes. (1998). Understanding Crime Prevention: Social Control, Risk and Late Modernity. Open University Press.
James McGuire (2003). Offender Rehabilitation and Treatment: Effective Programs and Policies to Reduce Re-offending. John Wiley & Sons.