System Policy Weekly Discussion

Read Pages 133-215 of The Future of Crime and Punishment and answer the following questions:

Kelly, William R. ( 2016),(Updated). The Future of Crime and Punishment: Smart Policies for Reducing Crime and Saving Money. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield.

In his book, William Kelly argues that there are many collateral consequences associated with having a criminal record which can affect an ex-offender’s access to housing, employment, and even his or her ability to volunteer. In your opinion, if an ex-offender has competed his or her sentence and been released, should his or her criminal history be sealed and private, much like what is done with confidential medical records? Take a position either way and fully defend it. Be sure to elaborate completely.

Next, in your opinion, should all courts recognize substance abuse as a medical problem? Explain why this would be either beneficial or detrimental to society? Be sure to demonstrate your familiarity with the assigned reading as you answer the above question.

Next, do you feel as though needle-exchange programs provide a useful service to drug addicts, or do they merely perpetuate addiction? Should these programs be funded by federal tax dollars? Please support your position.

Next, after reflecting upon William Kelly’s discussion of gun violence, do you believe that it would be it would be sound policy to ban the sale of large capacity magazines (greater than ten rounds)? In your opinion, would this save lives, or would it be an infringement upon personal liberties? Do you think the Founding Father’s would approve of large capacity magazines if they were alive today? Elaborate.

Finally, please point to one additional aspect of the reading that you found to be of interest. Be sure to explain what this particular aspect of the reading contributes to our understanding of criminal justice policy.

In addition to fully responding to every aspect of the above question, please pose a critical thinking question to your peers.