CJ 320 - Wrongful Convictions

This course analyzes the criminal justice processes that result in the conviction of an innocent person. Two key issues are addressed: 1) ”why” wrongful convictions occur, and 2) “how” are wrongful convictions possible given the Constitutional safeguards available in the United States. The issue of “why” wrongful convictions occur centers on the actions of individual agents of the criminal justice system: police, forensic experts, prosecutors and members of the judiciary that result in wrongful conviction. The issue of “how” wrongful convictions occur focuses on the structure and processes of the criminal justice system that lead to wrongful conviction. Reforms in the administration of justice intended to reduce the likelihood of wrongful convictions are explored.

Four credits.