Sentencing Disparities Between People of Color and Whites in the U.S.

• In Event: Poster Session 2

Abstract

The fact that injustices due to race occur within the United States’ criminal justice system is well known. Racial and ethnic discrepancies across the criminal justice system have been documented for decades, yet little has been done to reform the fundamental practices enabling these wrongdoings. This study examines the relationship between sentences given to white defendants compared people of color. It does so by analyzing self-identification race self-report surveys performed during the booking process and its correlation to sentences and time served-sentences and time served being measured in months for ease of comparison. Systematic biases among capital punishment, post-release supervision, probation, and jury selection processes are also discussed.

Authors

• Joanna Medlin, Dalton State College

• Natalie J. Johnson, Dalton State College