There are several pros and cons to both model; however, there are certain groups and individuals that side 
with one more often than the other. The notion that these models may fall along political lines is often 
based on previous court decisions, as well as campaign approaches in the U.S. The crime control model is 
used when promoting policies that allow the system to get tough, expand police powers, change sentencing 
practices such as create “Three Strikes,” and more. The due process model may promote policies that 
require the system to focus on individual rights. These rights may include requiring police to inform people 
under arrest that they do not have to answer questions with an attorney (Miranda v. Arizona), providing all 
defendants with an attorney (Gideon v. Wainwright), or shutting down private prisons who often abuse the 
rights of inmates. 
To state that crime control is purely conservative and due process if purely liberal would be too simplistic, 
but to recognize that the policies are a reflection of our current political climate is relevant. If Americans 
are fearful of crime, and Gallup polls suggest they are, politicians may propose policies that focus on 
controlling crime. However, if polls suggest police may have too many powers and that can lead to abuse, 
then politicians may propose policies that limit their powers such as requiring warrants to obtain drugs. 
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Again, this may reflect society, a reflection of a part of society, or the interests of a political party or specific 
politician. 
Exercise 
Discuss what the primary goal of the criminal justice system should be: to control crime, ensure due process, or 
both? Explain how this opinion may get influenced by individual factors, such as age, gender/sex, race/ethnicity, 
economic situation, a country born in, and more. Could goals change with the more education given about 
criminal justice? If so, make an argument in favor of education. If not, make an argument against educating the 
public on criminal justice. 
6. Davis, A. (2016). In the U.S., concern about crime climbs to 15-year high. Gallup Poll. 
ALISON S. BURKE, DAVID CARTER, BRIAN FEDOREK, TIFFANY MOREY, LORE RUTZ-BURRI, AND SHANELL
SANCHEZ
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