This case had much to do with the Violence Against Women Act being passed by Congress in 1994. There was a pattern of violence from OJ towards Nicole and this should have been a red flag for law enforcement. There should have been more extensive measures taken back in 1989 when the law was called and when officers arrived found Nicole with bruises and a cut lip. She has told them then that she was fearful for her …show more content…
The police had been called numerous times regarding abusive instances by OJ. It was reported by the New York Times that Nicole had been abused for some 17 years by OJ prior to the murders. The abuse that she underwent was verbal, physical, and aimed to degrade and humiliate her. OJ was also known for stalking and harassing her as well. During the trial it was reported that there were numerous pages of accounts of this abuse. There was talk that OJ was in a jealous rage due to relationship that Nicole had with other men. He was very jealous and possessive. OJ was a heavy drinker and had issues with violent rages. There were even reports by Nicole’s mother that she had been followed by OJ as well. After the infamous New Year’s beating incident in 1989, OJ was ordered to counseling and paying a $700 fine for spousal abuse. OJ was acquitted by a criminal jury for both Nicole and Ron Goldman’s murders. Many believe this was due to publicity and/or his position in society. However, a civil jury held him responsible for the crime and order restitution pay to their families in the amount of 33.5 million dollars. There were ample incidents for some action to be taken to protect Nicole in a better …show more content…
This theory is apparent when social constraints on antisocial behavior are weakened or absent and delinquent behavior emerges. Contemporary Criminological Theory is present as well. This theory shows an understanding of crime and violence. Power struggles and control is a major contributor to violence. OJ felt that he has to be in total control of Nicole’s life and the only one whom she should ever be involved with. Even though they were divorced at the time of the murders OJ felt that he “owned” her so to speak. He was having threatening feeling of losing in the game of power when someone else stepped into the picture and his outrage of violence over took