Injustice in the justice system: an investigative analysis of ethnic disparities for the possession of crack cocaine
Injustice in the justice system: an investigative analysis of ethnic disparities for the possession of crack cocaine
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Issue Date
2011
Authors
Huffman, Telita M.
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Abstract
This investigative analysis incorporates both theoretical perspectives and quantitative analyses to help explain discrepancies in the prison sentence terms minorities receive for the possession of crack cocaine compared to that of powder cocaine. This research is based on a match cohort sampling design from a data set of individuals who were arrested for the possession of crack and/or powder cocaine by the New City Police Department from 1983-1984 for powder cocaine related offenses, and August to October of 1986 for crack cocaine related offenses. The researcher’s hypothesis was that minorities receive harsher prison sentences for the possession of crack cocaine when controlling for potentially important variables as well as other variables that would not seem to have an effect. The results were consistent with the researcher’s hypothesis. Although the data set deals with a New York City population, the disparities in sentences that minorities receives for the possession of crack cocaine is not just a New York City issue. Throughout this research project, Bill S.1789 was with the House of Congress and it addressed racial disparity issues in sentencing. By the completion of this research project, Bill S.1789 was signed by President Barrack Obama on August 3 2010, as the Fair Sentencing Act of 2010.
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Forensic science