When asked the question about why the U.S. has the highest incarceration rate, two of the individuals in the article gave several of their thoughts on the issue. Alec Ross felt that there were many factors, including a functional system for the rule of law, the prevalence of guns in the United States, and the concentration of poverty in both urban and rural areas leading to increased crime rates. The Honorable Robert J. Torres, Jr. believes it is attributed to tough sentencing laws, record numbers of drug offenders and high crime rates, and policy changes like mandatory minimums and three strikes laws, which limit judicial discretion. Torres also referenced shortcomings in various social programs, blaming social failures for criminality and incarceration.
I agree with Alec Ross on his point about the United States having a functional system for the rule of law, and with Robert Torres, Jr. on his points about tough sentencing laws and policy changes. Many countries around the world do not have adequate judicial systems in place. Crime runs rampant in most of these countries, but there are no consequences for the criminals. In some countries, they dont have the services or resources, and in other countries, theyre just simply corrupt. I think tough sentencing laws and policies like mandatory minimums and three strikes laws tie into having a functional judicial system. Our country has tough sentencing laws, mandatory minimum sentences, and three strikes laws because these are considered deterrents to crime. Can you imagine the crime rates without these deterrents in place? It may increase our incarceration rate, but it also serves as a deterrent for many. Punishment is important, and it should fit the crime. Without these penalties in place, I think our country would see a higher rate of crime and more violent crimes.