Assignment task: Criminal Justice Case Studies
The Case of Jimmy
Jimmy M. is a 21-year-old male who has just been arrested for stealing a car, driving while under the influence of drugs, and fleeing the scene of a deadly accident. Last night, Jimmy and a friend stole a luxury car parked in a neighborhood parking lot. Shortly after stealing the car, Jimmy and his friend smoked Fentanyl-laced cocaine and quickly became inebriated. Jimmy lost control of the car, crossed the median and hit an oncoming car head on, killing the two elderly passengers instantly. Jimmy and his friend sustained minor injuries and fled the scene. Thanks to eyewitness accounts, Jimmy and his friend were found and arrested shortly thereafter. Jimmy lives in a poverty-stricken and high crime area of town. He currently lives with his father and has no knowledge of his mother's whereabouts. Jimmy's father has mentally and physically abused him since he was a child, and regularly abuses drugs. Since childhood, Jimmy has suffered from a number of psychological issues and was recently diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder and bipolar disorder. Jimmy was kicked out of several public schools for fighting and has been arrested twice for assault and battery and once for intent to distribute heroin.
1. What biological, psychological, or social factors could be used to explain the case study offender's criminal background? What theories might account for the offender's behavior?
2. How would you sentence the offender for the crimes committed?
3. What philosophical orientation(s) would guide your decision-making about sentencing?
4. What mitigating factors and/or aggravating circumstances would you consider when deciding on sentencing?
5. What type of sentence would you recommend and why?
6. What sanctions would you recommend and why?
7. Do you think the offender is likely to reoffend after completing their sentence? Why or why not?