Rights for victims of crime : rebalancing justice /

This work initially appears to be a useful handbook contributing to the rapidly growing literature in the academic study of victimology. The descriptions of the eight core needs of crime victims and their six interests unmet by the criminal justice system are helpful for lay readers as well as professionals. Also, the chapter on focusing on research-based prevention strategies rather than relying primarily on crime control measures such as incarceration is insightful. However, a careful reading reveals two serious shortcomings, making this book unsuitable for average students and uninformed nonacademic readers. Waller (Univ. of Ottawa, Canada) rightfully describes the sensationalism that often hinders meeting the needs of victims, yet he often uses the same technique, for instance, his use of composite sketches of hypothetical crime victims. Secondly, his claim that releasing convicts is not a smart way to reduce incarceration and will lead to increased victimization is ideologically rooted rather than research based. Summing Up: Recommended. Faculty/specialists. K. Baird-Olson California State University--Northridge

Waller, a victims' rights expert and former appellate court judge, makes the case that the criminal justice system focuses on perpetrators of crime while neglecting victims. Armed with statistics and studies, he reviews the state of U.S./international victim-support legislation and practice, and outlines eight inalienable rights victims should be entitled to and for which victims' rights organizations must lobby. Waller's action plan aims to take advocates from recognizing the problem to implementing solutions, including enacting legislation, acquiring appropriate levels of funding, and establishing a network of ombudspersons to support victims. VERDICT Written for crime victims, their families, and advocates, this book provides tools for changing a flawed system. Complete with model legislation, an extensive bibliography, and analysis of positive victim-support initiatives in other countries, this belongs in most criminal justice collections.-Joan Pedzich, Harris Beach PLLC, Rochester, NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.