30000

PLS 30000 EXAMINATION OF CRMNL JUSTICE (4)

Designed to reinforce officer's knowledge and understanding of all facets of criminal justice system, sub-systems and how they interrelate (police, defense and prosecuting attorneys, courts, institutional corrections, community-based corrections, and the juvenile justice system). Emphasis on criminal justice system as a whole and necessity that its elements be integrated. Roles and interrelationships of local, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies also examined.

PLS 30100 INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS: PRACTICE & SYSTEMS (4)

Reviews major elements that comprise the American law enforcement system,  including historical and contemporary development of the police role in society and common roots of different components of present structure. Major social, economic and political events that contributed to formation of American criminal justice system highlighted. Eternal balancing required to assure adherence to constitutional safeguards, while maintaining social order, providing for public safety and delivering law enforcement services integrated throughout the course. Full range of rights in American criminal justice system examined, not only in broad philosophical and social context but also in terms of specific application. Contrast systems of policing in other countries with the American experience. Includes impact of case law on police policies and practices, discretion in administration of justice, due process, and contemporary influences in the justice system.

PLS 30200 POLICE RESPONSIBILITIES AND ETHICS (4)

Studies police responsibility within a law enforcement agency, and between criminal justice agencies and the public, and sources of police authority, both legal and moral responsibilities examined. Emphasizes principles, values and theories which underpin and shape effective and ethical policing to promote sound decision making skills, and moral vulnerability of those who practice policing is illustrated. Examines conflicts of interest, police corruption and abuse of power, individual and organizational strategies promoting high levels of integrity and professionalism throughout police service. Provides review of applicable case law relating to police officer misconduct and resultant liability, history of civil service process, impact of labor efforts and contemporary components of police personnel systems. Officer-agency labor relations, collective bargaining, police associations and unions and relevant labor law examined.

PLS 30300 UNDERSTANDING CRIMINAL BEHAVIOR (4)

Studies dynamics of human behavior based on analysis of biological, cultural, sociological any psychological factors. Examines socially deviant behavior, theoretical overviews and implications for social control and the nature of social policy. Provides strategies for recognition and apprehension of serial offenders. Requires students to examine the field of criminology including theory, research and findings of biological, psychological and sociological studies of criminality through research and case studies. Includes crime as a form of deviant behavior, nature and extent of crime, societal reactions to crime, past and present theories and evaluation of prevention, control and treatment programs. Emphasis placed on police profession's experience in application of criminology theories, current trends and emerging research.