Crime Control and Due Process Models
The crime control model and due process model are two contrasting approaches to criminal justice, defined by Herbert Packer in 1968. These models of criminal justice system represent different priorities and methods in addressing crime and protecting society.
Definition: The crime control model is an approach that prioritizes suppressing crime and efficiently prosecuting offenders, often starting from a presumption of guilt.
The crime control model advocates for giving police significant freedom and authority to act swiftly in catching and prosecuting suspects. This model can be likened to an efficient conveyor belt, focusing on quick and easy prosecution of suspects to protect victims and society.
Highlight: The crime control model prioritizes societal protection, even at the risk of potential wrongful convictions.
Example: Crime control model examples include zero-tolerance policies and right realism approaches to criminal justice.
In contrast, the due process model focuses on protecting the rights of the accused and ensuring fair trials.
Definition: The due process model emphasizes the protection of individual rights against potential abuses of authority, treating the accused as "innocent until proven guilty."
This model sets up safeguards and restrictions on police power to prevent abuse and ensure fair treatment of suspects. It can be compared to an obstacle course that authorities must navigate to secure a conviction.
Highlight: The due process model emphasizes the protection of individual rights over societal protection, potentially allowing some guilty individuals to go free on technicalities.
Example: Due process model examples include the implementation of PACE (Police and Criminal Evidence Act) restrictions on police powers.
