Module 1
Crime, Criminal Justice and Criminology Overview
,What is a Crime?
• An act or conduct that violates a criminal law as
determined by the Majority or those who hold the
power
• Has an attached punishment (loss of liberty or fine)
• Considered an offense against society
• Prosecuted by public officials
• No revenge by the victims, their friends or relatives
• Old west (hanging cattle rustlers)
• Vigilantes
, DJ Bell—Charged with
Kidnapping
July 4, 2008 2010 Trial
Crime, Criminal Justice and Criminology Overview
,What is a Crime?
• An act or conduct that violates a criminal law as
determined by the Majority or those who hold the
power
• Has an attached punishment (loss of liberty or fine)
• Considered an offense against society
• Prosecuted by public officials
• No revenge by the victims, their friends or relatives
• Old west (hanging cattle rustlers)
• Vigilantes
, DJ Bell—Charged with
Kidnapping
July 4, 2008 2010 Trial