Scientific risk assessments may result in more equitable sentences
Friday, September 12, 2014 - 03:31
in Psychology & Sociology
The use of scientific risk assessment in criminal sentencing is being touted by one expert as "powerful." Risk assessments use statistical information to try and discern the likelihood of convicted criminals' committing more crimes if released. None of the most widely used risk assessment instruments rely on race or income as criteria. Still, critics worry that risk assessments will discriminate against the poor and minorities.