An introduction to Criminal Justice, including philosophical background, history, constitutional limits, agencies, processes of justice, and evaluation of current criminal justice practices. An introductory study of public administration in governmental organizations, emphasizing the principles of management and fiscal, personnel, planning, and public practices. An analysis of the historical development of institutions, including community attitudes and resources, treatment programs, trends and changes in the field, based on the philosophies of state and national governments. A study of substantive crimes and their punishment, special defenses, inchoate and group criminality, and limitations of the criminal law.
Appropriate attention is given to distinguishing aspects of South Carolina criminal law.
The course consists of a study of criminal procedure, generally, with specific emphasis on constitutional requirements and on criminal procedure in South Carolina at all stages of the proceedings from investigation and arrest through appeal. A study of policy-making and administration within law enforcement agencies in the United States, including an examination of organizational structure and behavior, personnel management, budgeting, and the role of police agencies within the greater governmental bureaucracy. A study of law relating to proof of facts and of practices associated with the acquisition, preservation, and admissibility of evidence in the criminal courts. A study of the origins, goals, methods, and effectiveness of police systems at both the national and subnational levels in the United States, coupled with a comparison of these systems with those in place in other nations. A study of crime, delinquency, and the mechanisms of social control.