Option #1

The Controlled Substances Import and Export Act (1970) This started the increases for drugs in the U.S. under federally mandated minimums found within the federal code 21 U.S.C. 841. For a detailed reporting of these minimums, see https://www.ussc.gov/sites/default/files/Links to an external site.pdf/research-and-publications/research-publications/2017/20171025_Drug-Mand-Min.pdf.Links to an external site. One of the most debated issues within the drug sentencing laws was the differential between cocaine (in powder form) and crack ( also form of cocaine, diluted and in a hardened paste form). During the increases in sentencing, there was a disparity in the lengths of sentences for comparable weights of these two drugs. There has been much debate whether this targeted poorer individuals more harshly, as crack was seen as a poor man's cocaine. However, with additional mandatory minimum increases in the 1980s, differences in sentence lengths began to widen. In a detailed report, Barbara Meierhoefer (1992) detailed how the average sentence lengths for African Americans (for similar weights of crack v. cocaine for Whites) was roughly 50% higher, supporting this assertion that drug sentences were not equal.

• In your opinion, did the sentencing laws target poorer individuals and minorities? Why or why not?
• Should the federal government correct these sentencing laws by releasing inmates affected? Why or why not?
• Should the Three Strikes policy be eliminated? Why or why not?

Option #2

https://slcc.instructure.com/courses/952155/pages/meek-mill-is-exhibit-a-of-nations-broken-probation-system

• In your opinion, are these few highlighted issues or are they issues to structural/systemic racism?
• Who should be held accountable for these issues?
• Since incarceration is so expensive, how could probation serve as better alternative?
• How could the Black Lives Matter movement improve community awareness and action regarding systemic issues found in the nation's probation system?

Note on discussions: Discussions are to be thoughtful, insightful, and respectful. Initial postings should be 300+ words. Once you have made a substantial posting yourself, you ARE REQUIRED to respond to two other students' postings; those postings should be between 50-75 words.

Community Corrections Discussion CJ-1010