The Impact of Race on the Pretrial Decision
- ASU Author/Contributor (non-ASU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
- Cathy Marcum, Associate Professor and Curriculum Coordinator (Creator)
- Institution
- Appalachian State University (ASU )
- Web Site: https://library.appstate.edu/
Abstract: This study examined the effect of race on the pretrial release decision for
drug offenders. Although this decision point has not been examined as extensively as
the final sentencing decision, it is a critical discretion point which impacts defendants’
future sentencing outcomes. The results found that race had a significant impact on
judges’ decisions to release a defendant on recognizance, with black defendants less
likely to receive this release status. Race was not significant, however, in the decision
of bail amount or in the likelihood to post bail. These results are consistent with the
focal concerns perspective which suggests that black defendants are viewed by courts
as more dangerous and blameworthy and thereby, less likely to be released on their
own recognizance.
The Impact of Race on the Pretrial Decision
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Additional Information
- Publication
- Freiburger, T.L., Marcum, C.D., & Pierce, M.B. (2010). The Impact of Race on the Pretrial Decision. American Journal of Criminal Justice, 35(1): 76-86. Published by Springer-Verlag (ISSN: 1936-1351). DOI 10.1007/s12103-009-9069-z
- Language: English
- Date: 2010