Prosecution and Punishment
- Explain with examples how the Eighth Amendment restricts the government’s authority to make something a crime.
- Analyze Papachristou v. City of Jacksonville. As a public administrator, explain whether there should be a higher concern for public safety or for individual rights. Support your position with examples or evidence.
- Evaluate United States v. Agurs. Another very important public policy issue is an appreciation for the difference between obtaining a high conviction rate or being perceived as “tough on crime,” and seeking justice. Debate your position on the death penalty regarding whether it is used for justice or for other purposes. Support your position with examples or evidence.
- In the text, it states that “the (Supreme) Court has agreed that the death penalty can be constitutionally sustained only if its imposition is consistent with ‘evolving standards of decency’.” With so many juveniles committing heinous crimes, take a position and debate as a public administrator on whether you think the death penalty should be allowed for juveniles?
