Full Description
The public's knowledge of crime is primarily derived from the depiction in the media. If the media is responsible for the headlines, the conclusion to be reached is that they influence the public's attention regarding crime. This book examines, through the study of cases that have made headlines, what is noted as the fear of crime among the populace. In addition to cases such as Scott Peterson, Marilyn Sheppard, and Jon Benet Ramsey, the authors focus on the changes in the sentencing laws, policies, increased incarceration rates as well as the war on drugs and try to find the factors that brought about change. KEY TOPICS: Focuses on the mass media and how it has transformed the criminal justice system. Presents 10 cases ranging throughout history right up until the 21st Century. Allows the reader to become involved in the case with an understanding of how the case was portrayed in the media. Explains the theory of crime and what attracts the media. The focus of this work, the media and its handling of the criminal justice system, will have appeal to anyone involved in criminal justice. The case descriptions, the commentary will fascinate all readers.
Contents
Dedication About the Authors Preface Chapter 1 "Mediafication of CrimeHeadlines v Reality Chapter 2 What About the Media? Chapter 3 The Relationship of Crime Reporting and its Effectiveness Concerning the Criminal Justice System Chapter 4 Crimes and Reactions Chapter 5 The Salem Witchcraft Trials Chapter 6 The Scopes "Monkey Trial" -- July 10 -- 25 1925 Chapter 7 The Menedez Brothers -1989 Chapter 8 Colin Ferguson -- 1993 Chapter 9 The O.J. Simpson Case - 1994 Chapter 10 Jon-Benet Ramsey 1996 Chapter 11 Kobe Bryant - 2003 Chapter 12 Daniel Pelosi - 2001 Chapter 13 Elizabeth Ann Smart - 2002 Chapter 14 Scott Peterson - 2002 Chapter 15 Michael Jackson - 2004 Chapter 16 Criminal Justice Treatment by the Media Chapter 17 A Star is Formed: Media Construction of the Female Criminal by Krista Gehring Chapter 18 Martha Stewart: This Criminal Case is About Lying! Chapter 19 Can the Mass Media do good? Or no wrong? Chapter 20 If a Story isn't on TV or Depicted by the Media in America, it Doesn't Exist in our Culture Chapter 21 In Conclusion References
