Theses and Dissertations
This collection includes both ASU Theses and Dissertations, submitted by graduate students, and the Barrett, Honors College theses submitted by undergraduate students.
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Forensic science has commanded the spotlight in mainstream media, both fact-based and fictional. Popular fictional shows, like CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, give unrealistic scenarios of criminal proceedings by forensic scientists and investigators. From inaccurate timetables to blurred job responsibilities, fictional media has spread misconceptions of the industry. Fictional shows depict unrealistic relationships between the investigators and the scientists. Documentary crime shows and movies, while based in fact, are often oversimplified for entertainment purposes. Public safety officials and the news media are often at odds. The media yearns to release case details as quickly as possible, while officials attempt to keep investigations closed to the public to minimize public harm. This research takes a unique approach to study the impact media entities have on the public's perception of Arizona's criminal just system, and how the system has responded as the public's expectations have been altered. Evidence collecting procedures have changed, along with the sheer volume of evidence processed on a daily basis at crime labs around the state. Courtroom procedures have also changed, as juries now expect physical evidence to be presented in every case. Mass media must do a better job of accurately portraying criminal investigative techniques in order to better educate the public, and to produce a better informed jury pool with reasonable expectations concerning criminal evidence. Higher education also has a significant role to play in both making the public aware of the power and limitations of forensic science, and in preparing future generations of forensic scientists.
ContributorsSmouse, Rebecca Jean (Author) / Lafond, Sue (Thesis director) / Brehman, Brian (Committee member) / Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication (Contributor) / School of Criminology and Criminal Justice (Contributor) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor)
Created2017-05
Description
The use of the death penalty in Arizona began in Florence, Arizona in 1910. The different methods of execution in Arizona have included death by hanging (1910-1931), lethal gas (1931-1992), and lethal injection (1992-present). The methods of execution in Arizona have changed due to both legal and social factors. Multiple articles have been published with the community’s opinion on the method being used during the specific periods. Arizona has been caught twice trying to illegally import lethal injection drugs, the first time in 2011 and then in 2015. To continue executions Arizona needs to either revise its protocol or choose a new method. In 2021, the state has purchased lethal gases, refurbished its gas chamber, and purchased lethal injection drugs. Currently, Arizona still has lethal injection as the form of execution, and it is unclear what the state plans to do moving forward. As Arizona is unsure of how to proceed, nitrogen hypoxia is a method the state should investigate. The state should move forward like Oklahoma and try a new method instead of taking a step back to a method deemed inadequate.
ContributorsThompson, Keara (Author) / Gordon, Karen (Thesis director) / Brehman, Brian (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / School of Criminology and Criminal Justice (Contributor) / School of Social and Behavioral Sciences (Contributor)
Created2022-05
Description
Serial killers make up a small amount of crime yet are seen in hundreds if not thousands of movies. The way they have been presented and the films in which they are presented have evolved in the past three decades. Looking at six movies from this thirty year period, analysis of the evolution of serial killers in films will be discussed. There has been an increase in the levels of violence in these films as well as a more relatable, three-dimensional serial killer. There has also been a disproportionate amount of attention given to the serial killer rather than the victims.
ContributorsHeninger, Jake (Author) / Gordon, Karen (Thesis director) / Brehman, Brian (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / School of Criminology and Criminal Justice (Contributor)
Created2022-05
Description
Recidivism is one of the most discussed issues in the topic of criminal justice reform due to how it contributes to the problems of crime and mass incarceration. To address this problem, correctional facilities across the United States have developed reentry systems, which prepare an incarcerated individual for their release back into society near the completion of their sentence. When implemented and run correctly, reentry programs can be effective at significantly reducing the likelihood that individuals will recidivate. This thesis focuses on programs run in Arizona and Michigan, which both have significantly lower recidivism rates than the national average. The programs analyzed in this paper were found to be particularly efficient at reducing recidivism by providing individuals with essential services and opportunities for reintegrating back into society. The common factors between these programs included large amounts of funding, collaboration between state agencies and non-profit organizations, and providing access to services from the beginning of an individual’s sentence to months after their release. By adopting similar practices and programs, other states may be able to more effectively address recidivism in the way that Arizona and Michigan have.
ContributorsCollins, Charles (Author) / Barnhart, Patricia (Thesis director) / Brehman, Brian (Committee member) / Barrett, The Honors College (Contributor) / School of Politics and Global Studies (Contributor) / School of Criminology and Criminal Justice (Contributor)
Created2024-05