Overrepresentation of Minorities in the Criminal Justice System

Overrepresentation of Minorities in the Criminal Justice System
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Overrepresentation of Minorities in the Criminal Justice System
Federal and state agencies realize the disproportional rates of convictions; however, different views regarding appropriate responses to the issue exist. Analysis of demographic data outlined in state databases highlights that racial and ethnic disparities are a legitimate concern that individuals should prioritize. Policy reforms and law enforcement training are the main approaches to addressing racial disparities in the criminal justice system. Dysfunctions in traffic and bail determination procedures lead to the overrepresentation of minorities in the criminal justice system.
Racial Profiling in Traffic Stops
Disparities are evident in traffic stops. A study on bias in law enforcement highlighted data from 95 million visits across the country (National Conference of State Legislatures, 2022). Data from 21 patrol stations and 35 municipal departments indicates that African American drivers are less likely to be stopped during the night hours (National Conference of State Legislatures, 2022). The researchers suggest that the differences in arrest rates before and after sunsets indicate that they are less likely to be stopped when an officer cannot distinguish a driver's face (National Conference of State Legislatures, 2022). Furthermore, data shows that the criteria for searching African American and Hispanic drivers were lower. Analyzing the influence of policies on arrest patterns can identify gaps that place minorities at a disadvantage. Besides, the researchers explored the relationships between the legalization of recreational cannabis and racial disparities. Thus, the focus on Colorado and Washington, two of the earliest states to legalize recreational cannabis, shows a substantial reduction in traffic searches. While minorities were still more likely to be stopped, individuals reduced the number of searches. Exploring the pre-legalization and post-legalization phases can provide insight into forces that sustain oppressive systems.
The type of data collected at traffic stops differs across states. However, the state should implement guidelines to identify potential bias in each state. Individuals should include inquiries on demographic characteristics alongside the reason for stops. Moreover, the officers should record whether searches were authorized due to stops, consent to search, whether officers searched the property, and the search duration (The Sentencing Project, 2016). Data collection requirements should include whether contraband was found, the type of contraband, potential warnings issued, and violation charges. Ensuring that officers record where arrests were made due to stops or searchers promotes accountability, as discriminatory patterns can be identified early on and addressed appropriately. Evidence-based findings on the type of stops used in racial profiling can inform policies centered on standardized data collection criteria to be introduced across state lines.
Cultural competency and bias training guidelines should be updated regularly. Po...