APUS ePress: Criminal Justice

Johnathon D. Harris
Program: Criminal Justice: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: August 2017
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Ekwuniru Norbert
Abstract: This paper examines the idea that criminologists can predict murders based on observed and known characteristics of murderers. The purpose of this research is to bring down the murder rate in the United States which has been relatively high compared to other countries. The methodology of this research will consist of using a mixed method approach to obtain data from secondary sources that list characteristics of convicted criminals. These characteristics can then be compared to other high risk individuals in our prison system to determine the likelihood of that person committing murder. The findings of this research conclude that common characteristics of murderers can be identified and then used to help identify potential murderers before they kill. These individuals who have been identified as a possible murderer should attend educational classes and counseling in prison to reduce their likelihood of killing in the future. In conclusion, this thesis should be used only as a tool to further law enforcement’s understanding of criminals and not as proof of future murderers.

Chris Alan Howard
Program: Criminal Justice: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: May 2017
Capstone Instructor: Professor Kim Miller
Abstract: A lack of clarity exists in the role state and local police has with homeland security. Morreale and Lambert mentioned new role of homeland security has left police agencies with a great amount of uncertainty in the conduct of their role. In addition, Ortiz, Hendricks, and Sugie questioned if departments need to abandon community policing for a paramilitary style to use in homeland security. This study utilized qualitative method by interviewing officers from state and local departments to understand their view on this role and to gain information on if departments should abandon or maintain community policing with homeland security. This study discovered officers viewed their role with homeland security as a supportive role, assisting federal agencies rather than active role protecting the homeland and preventing terrorist incidents. This study also concluded officers viewed community policing better for homeland security, since empowers the community members with the protecting the community by reporting suspicious individuals or activities that officers would not see through normal situations. Future recommendation is a similar study in a bigger city, one such as Atlanta or Chicago, which would be a prime target for terrorist attacks.

Joshua Lee Adams
Program: Criminal Justice: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: August 2014
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Charles Russo
Abstract: The purpose of this work is to offer the military law enforcement officer a new perspective on synthetic cannabinoid investigations by exploring themes identified by conducting content analysis of final/closed United States Army Criminal Investigation Command (USACIDC) or "CID", reports of investigation (ROIs) and Provost Marshal Office (PMO) military police reports (MPRs). The theory of content analysis was explored by reviewing ROIs from the military installations of Forts Bragg, NC and Fort Bliss, TX from 2011-2013. A historical perspective on synthetic cannabinoids and why they were first created is presented. Synthetic cannabinoids that are currently on the Controlled Substance Act (CSA) are explained, and adolescent as well as teenager views of synthetic cannabinoid use is examined. The physical effects of synthetic cannabinoid use are also elaborated on in this project; the evolution and adaptation of procedures created by the Army in the "war on cannabinoids" in the Army are explored.

Robert V. Dunbar
Program: Criminal Justice: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: February 2014
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Alex Ekwuaju
Abstract: The goal of this paper is to assist conservation officers in risk mitigation. The purpose of this study is to identify risk factors affecting the safety of waterways conservation officers in Pennsylvania. Its primary focus is on verbal assault, physical assault, use of force, accidents, injuries and illnesses. This research includes a qualitative analysis of original survey data provided by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission and the findings have been compared to studies of conservation agencies in Virginia, Florida, and Louisiana. The results indicate that there are similar risk factors for conservation officers of those four agencies. Furthermore, it indicates that the nature of resource use is changing and that natural resource agencies are merging and evolving from a conservation-specific focus to that of a more general police-style posture in order to meet the challenges of changing demographics. This change in responsibilities and focus, coupled with the unconventional nature of conservation law enforcement patrol practices, results in higher risk patrols.

David Matthew Iorillo
Program: Criminal Justice: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: January 28, 2014
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Joseph I. Molyneux
Abstract: The public safety industry is spread across a broad network of law enforcement, prosecution and incarceration agencies and programs that work to reduce crime at each level. In today’s economic and political environment, law enforcement agencies across the country are facing stricter budget and staffing models that have a profound effect on their ability to police neighborhoods and reduce crime. Private sector industries such as retail loss prevention, facility and private security corporations and financial organizations conduct investigations and implement crime reduction programs that mirror the efforts of law enforcement. Through the creation and utilization of partnerships between law enforcement and strategic private sector industries, crime can be reduced and the overall costs of combating crime can be shared among multiple resources. The reductions in budget and staffing make it an absolute necessity for law enforcement to look outside of traditional partnerships and bridge the gap better law enforcement and the private sector.

Tyler Louis Schwab
Program: Criminal Justice: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: May 2014
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Kerry L. Muehlenbeck
Abstract: The purpose of this research is to test the hypothesis that a four day 40 hour compressed work week schedule can help police officers balance out the equilibrium between their work, family, and social lives. To test this, a comparative analysis of the schedules for the United States Secret Service Emergency Response Team (USSS ERT) was used. The USSS ERT currently uses a traditional five day 40 hour work week schedule. The actual traditional schedule for the week of November 17, 2013 through November 23, 2013 was compared to a mock four day 40 hour compressed work week schedule for the same week. It was found that the four day 40 hour compressed work week schedule does not help the officers of the USSS ERT balance their work, family, and social lives. The mock compressed work week schedule not only significantly increased the amount of overtime in the week, it also significantly reduced the amount of days off officers were able to take. Reasons why this occurred and further research that is needed are explored as research shows that a compressed work week schedule has resulted in less overtime and more time off.

Randi Michelle Zimmer
Program: Criminal Justice: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: January 2014
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Kerry Muehlenbeck
Abstract: This paper assesses the main factors contributing to a high rate of criminal recidivism in the United States. Based on the findings which support a theory of insufficient social therapy programs offered during incarceration, an alternative approach is offered. Animals have long been used as a form of rehabilitation for people suffering from a myriad of physical and mental challenges. Because data suggests that individuals with criminal behavior who re-offend lack a certain level of social competence, the use of animal therapy should be considered as an option. Certain demographics of the prison population, namely those with social and psychological disorders, will be emphasized. And while most companion animals offer the therapeutic qualities necessary to teach compassion, particular attention is paid to homeless dogs. The pairing of homeless dogs with prison inmates poses a unique relationship: both entities have traditionally been rejected by society and are unfittingly misunderstood. Thus, there exists great potential for repeat offenders to reach out to their animal counterpart and seek self-improvement through social and emotional rehabilitation as a preventive measure for re-offense. Theories are developed through collecting existing scientific data, examining current therapy programs, and hypothesizing the best available strategies. Because of the limited available research on this unique partnership, recommendations will be outlined for further scientific research to be performed. The paper concludes with suggested best practices for maintaining existing programs and establishing new partnerships to achieve the greatest level of success.

Sabrina Hill
Program: Criminal Justice: Capstone-Thesis: Master of Arts (MA)
Awarded: August 25, 2013
Capstone Instructor: Dr. Luis Garcia-Pierro
Abstract: The purpose of this thesis is to examine the interpretation of existing data that proposes racial profiling increases the apprehension of potential offenders and innocent people. The study will utilize peer-reviewed research journals, government reports and professional criminal justice websites to review various statistics and demographic data to corroborate that minorities are disproportionately singled out by police during stops. The study will also examine whether racial profiling exists more in some states and/or regions in the United States than in others.