crime control model | Definition

Doc's CJ Glossary by Adam J. McKee
Course: Introduction

The Crime Control Model is a conceptualization of the criminal justice system developed by Herbert Packer that is characterized by an emphasis on aggressive crime suppression and control.

Compare with the Due Process Model.


The Crime Control Model is a theoretical framework that is concerned with the swift, efficient, and effective suppression of crime. Developed by Herbert Packer in the 1960s, the model emphasizes the importance of law enforcement agencies, such as police and prosecutors, in deterring criminal behavior and maintaining public safety.

According to the Crime Control Model, the criminal justice system should prioritize the protection of society from criminal activity above all else. This means that law enforcement agencies should be given broad discretion in investigating and apprehending suspects and that criminal suspects should be swiftly and efficiently processed through the system. This model is characterized by a focus on speed, efficiency, and finality, with little tolerance for appeals or challenges to legal proceedings.

One of the criticisms of the Crime Control Model is that it places too much emphasis on punishment and control and not enough on the protection of individual rights. This is particularly evident in the juvenile justice system, where the focus is often on punishing young offenders rather than rehabilitating them and addressing the underlying causes of their behavior.

Critics of the Crime Control Model argue that a more balanced approach is needed, one that takes into account both the need for crime control and the protection of individual rights. This is especially important in the juvenile justice system, where young offenders are often the victims of poverty, neglect, and other social ills that contribute to their involvement in criminal activities.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need for a more balanced approach to criminal justice, one that recognizes the importance of both crime control and individual rights. This has led to a renewed emphasis on programs and initiatives aimed at rehabilitating offenders and addressing the underlying causes of crime, particularly in the juvenile justice system.


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Last Modified: 04/08/2023

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