What's happening in the field of Criminal Justice?

It might be easier to ask, “what is not happening in the field of criminal justice?” Those of you who are practitioners in criminal justice know that it is one of the most dynamic and fast paced career areas, and fields of study today. There are so many constant and on-going issues in society that bring with it changes in the law, and how the criminal justice system responds, that this field is never static. You need a daily update to keep current. Consider this…

• In a post-9/11 era, policing is still in a transition from the “community-oriented” philosophy to an emphasis on Homeland Security and anti-terrorism concerns.
• Technology related crimes, such as identity theft and online internet related crimes, draw more attention today, and “cost” our society more, than typical “street” and “property” crimes.
• Changes in the law, such as the “Patriot Act”, have a direct effect on how the job gets done across the board in criminal justice.
• The emphasis on forensics and it’s importance in determining guilt, and in many cases today… determining innocence. Just review the latest cases where convictions have been reversed and innocent persons have been freed.
• Immigration, and all the issues that go with it, is having an effect on all the major components of our criminal justice system… police, courts, and corrections.
• A renewed look at the need for more emphasis on ethics and integrity across the entire field of criminal justice.
• A new push to “decriminalize” and “legalize” certain drugs will have an effect on our system of justice.

These are just a few “hot topic” issues that are challenging us today. Through this program, we intend to keep up with the latest and be on the cutting edge of “what is happening” out there, for you, the criminal justice professional.