For decades, many Chicago neighborhoods have been gripped in gang culture, resulting in turf conflict and entrenched gang-related violence that sadly has become the norm in many communities. A prime example of gangs impacting neighborhoods involves the life of Robert "Yummy" Sandifer. In 1983, Lorina Sandifer a drug addict and prostitute gave birth to Robert. Lorina Sandifer frequently physically abused Robert as a young child. Robert's biological father was incarcerated and never part of his life. By the time Robert "Yummy" Sandifer was 11 years old he was involved in a gang and had been arrested multiple times; allegedly obtaining 23 felonies and 5 misdemeanors. The juvenile system stated they could not keep Robert Sandifer out of trouble and were helpless because at the time he was too young for juvenile detention. Robert "Yummy" Sandifer was known for stealing vehicles and conducting favors such as, dealing drugs for local gang members. At 11 years old Robert "Yummy" Sandifer shot two other youths involved with the Gangster Disciples a known Chicago street gang. However, one of the stray bullets struck and killed a 14-year-old innocent bystander by the name of Shavon Dean. Robert "Yummy" Sandifer fled the scene and was wanted by law enforcement authorities. Since, the crime made headlines, Sandifer met up with Cragg and Derrick Hardaway ages 16 and 14 who were also gang members in order to transport Sandifer to a safehouse. However, the Hardaway brother eventually took Robert "Yummy" Sandifer to a railroad underpass and shot a killed Sandifer execution style. The Hardaway brothers were later convicted of Sandifer's murder. In your opinion, which social structure theory best explains Robert "Yummy" Sandifer's criminal behavior? Which criminological theory best explains the Hardaway brothers' actions? How can society help socially disorganized areas located throughout the United States in order to reduce crime and delinquency? What can the criminal justice system or in the case of minors the juvenile justice system do to avoid tragic outcomes such as, the Robert "Yummy" Sandifer case?

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1 Social Structure Theory Explaining Robert Yummy Sandifers Criminal Behavior The social structure theory that best explains Robert Yummy Sandifers cr... View the full answer