Has Criminal Justice now become Technological Justice?

[Name of the Institute]

Has Criminal Justice now become Technological Justice?

Thesis Statement

`“Technological advancements in the field of Criminal Justice have certainly enhanced the efficiency of legislation, courts and the correctional agencies.”

Introduction

The use of modern technology in criminal justice systems has improved the efficiency of its various agencies. There have been rapid and innovative advancements in crime prevention, court proceedings and correctional services over the past few decades. An increased use of technology in crime prevention allows law enforcement officials to address the root causes of crime and helps in maintaining law and order.

On the other hand, its use in courts, allows the institution to serve justice. Usage of technology in prisons helps prison officers and the staff to run the operations smoothly, keep a track of the prisoners activities and to ensure safety. The field of criminal justice has been marked by rapid advancements in technological use; certainly it helps law enforcement officials and other elements of the criminal justice system (Perkins, 1982, pp.15).

According to Chang (2008), legislation, adjudication and corrections comprise the three vital components of the criminal justice system. These three agencies work in synergy and operate under the laws to serve the society. Usage of technology in the criminal justice department involves the applications of computers, surveillance devices, electronic databases, forensic and tracking devices etc. All these tools and a wide variety of others, allow the criminal justice system to better perform their functions. However, an increased dependence on technology has affected the orthodox methods used in crime prevention, detection and the prison systems. An overwhelming reliance of law enforcement officials on technology has often been a subject of disagreement among the experts. However, these technological advancements are being accepted worldwide and their advantages certainly exceed their disadvantages. Innovations in criminal justice system have revolutionised its functioning and have enhanced their productivity. Some studies suggest that if its incorporation is not well managed and people are not trained at its proper usage, it might face resistance from officers and other staff, especially due to the cohort effects. The technology is advancing at such a fast pace hence every issue must be examined by keeping the modern and current practices.

However, the advantages of using modern technology far exceed its disadvantages. Improving intelligence and investigative capabilities; and providing ready access to criminal records and other kinds of relevant data. Hence, more and more countries now spend hefty budgets at improvising their criminal justice institutions so they can succeed at their mission of serving justice and preventing criminal activities.

Discussion

History

Technological innovation has always served a catalysing effect in policing, prosecution and prison systems. The innovations have helped law enforcers to perform their duties well and have enhanced their efficiency. Usage of computers in the 80s allowed the agencies of criminal justice system to keep better and detailed databases of offenders, criminals and prisoners. DNA profiling allows investigators to solve cases with confirming evidence. It also allows them to solve older cases; that were ...