Ch 8-12 Flashcards
(112 cards)
How was history shaped Texas’s criminal Justice system?
The Texas criminal justice system has been historically violent and strict, especially against people of color.
According to public opinion polls, which of the following explains the racial difference in poilce favorability?
Policy favorability among African Amercians is much lower than it is among white and latino respondants.
What conclusions can be drawn from the public opinion poll on improving police-community relations?
More Hispanic and Black respondents support increased funding for police training than white respondents.
Which Racial group is most overrepresented in the Texas inmate population?
Black Texans
During which phase of the criminal justice process would the municipal police most likely be involved?
Entrance to the system.
What does the corrections component of the justice system encompass?
the system of incarceration and parole
Texans are MOST likely to come in contact with which kind of law enforcement agent?
municipal police
Which of the following is part of the primary duties of the Texas Rangers?
investigating murder and sexual assault cases.
What is included in the basic rights of the accused?
The right to a speedy public trial by an impartial jury
When is an indictment issued?
after the prosecuting attorney’s formal written accusation has been presented to and accepted by a grand jury.
What types of crime do NOT require a grand jury indictment?
misdemeanors
What is one major critique of the practice of plea bargaining?
It causes the justice system to fall short of guaranteeing all citizens the right to a fair and impartial trial.
What is the main difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor is a relatively minor, nonviolent crime, whereas a felony is deemed to pose a more serious threat to society.
Being convicted of theft of a $150,000 Ferrari would result in what maximum punishment?
2-20 years in prison and a $10k fine.
The practice of punishing repeat offenders more harshly than first-time offenders is known as what?
enhanced punishment
What does the TDCJ operate besides state prisons?
the parole supervision system.
What is the purpose of Substance Abuse Felony Punishment Facilities
to provide rehabilitative drug treatment for qualified offenders
Which of the following is TRUE of the texas prison system?
The incarcerated population in Texas has often been subjected to inhumane treatments and conditions
What did the judge in the multi-year lawsuit say about the air-conditioning in Texas prisons?
That it was equal to cruel and unusual punishment.
Which of the following convictions would arrant the death penalty in Texas
Capital felony
What happens after a defendant is found guilty of a capital felony in a case where the death penalty is sought?
The ruling is automatically appealed to the Texas Courty of Criminal Appeals.
If the govenor make a commutation of state charges in a death penalty case, what does this mean for the defendant?
The Penalty in the case is reduced.
Which is TRUE regarding methods of execution?
Pharmaceutical manufacturers have been reluctant to provide drugs used for execution, forcing states to look to unregulated pharmacies.
Which of the following arguments is commonly used in favor of the death penalty?
Fear of the death penalty will make potential criminals think twice.