CRJU 271 - Crime Victims and the Political Process

(3 credits)
The goal of this course is to expand and evaluate students’ knowledge of how crime victims influence criminal justice policy. Students will gain knowledge by exploring if, how and when crime victims affect legislators’ view on crime. The course examines the media’s role in promoting a victim’s view and the impact on crime policy. The role of victims’ rights groups and their political goals, methods and efficacy will also be examined. The role of race, class and gender in crime victims’ access to legislators and media outlets will also be discussed. Students will complete the course with a critical and analytical view of the growing and unchallenged influence of crime victims in policymaking.