Prison Sentencing System

The sentencing system in the US and the influences upon prison inmates is an increasing issue. The way people are raised and the environment people grow up in really affect them. The effect that inmates’ backgrounds have on prison sentencing is anything but just due to things such as social status, race, and the lack of resources, environmental factors, and financial income. This causes even the most dangerous criminals to receive short or reduced sentences, and puts people that make our world unsafe right back into a world of freedom. Racial injustice has been a big complication in our world for years. The way in which it has affected the lives of people is preposterous. Having people believe they are superior to others is something that …show more content…
It is stated, “Whom the white folks had called a “bad nigger.” (Wright p6) This line is prime example of not being treated well. The nickname nigger does not have the appropriate history to be used nicely. To call someone a nigger is using disrespectful word choice. Social status also contributes to the sentencing, level of respect, and treatment received. It is stated,” new sentencing laws have little impact on disparity and that guidelines are one of the main reasons for African Americans disproportionate rate of incarceration in state and federal prisons.” (Boies, Gorton 38) This shows the social inequality between African Americans and other races. Making sure that every race is an equal race is something that has not yet been presented in the world. It is stated,” Social characteristics of sentencing environment may influence decisions.” (Chen 1374) The difference between a mob leader vs. an ordinary unknown person being arrested for the same crime is likely. It is likely that the ordinary person would receive a longer sentence than the leader of a mob due to the social status of the mob leader. This leads us into the topic of lack of …show more content…
Resources affect many things when it comes down to sentencing and the treatment of the person being sentenced. It is stated, “studies have found links between criminal sentences and factors that are not directly relevant to the crime or the offender’s record.” This study shows the unjust treatment towards some inmates. Going back to the novel Native Son, the main character, Bigger had a major lack of resources. He did not know anyone close to him of the higher status, in which he could have received a less harsh punishment than the death sentence. It is stated, “ Why in God’s name can’t you pick out somebody decent to defend sometimes? Somebody who’ll appreciate it. Why do you Reds take up with scums like this?” (Wright 292) It is shown that Bigger did not have many people on his side. This adds to the fact that resources can take you places that you would not be able to go if you did not have them. It is stated, “Judges not required to follow written justification to deviate.” (Harmon 397) This is something that contributes to the poor sentencing system. Personal opinion can