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USA: Shame Sentencing (US style justice)

USA: Shame Sentencing (US style justice)
10 minutes, 1998
Ref: 12



It's called Shame Sentencing, and some American judges have taken to using it for first time offenders. Instead of jail, how about a sign around your neck saying you are a thief, or a poster in your window identifying you as a child molester? Public humiliation may be the latest trend in American justice, but aside from satisfying a need for revenge, does it prevent these criminals from becoming repeat offenders? We see Shame Sentencing in action: in court, with the judge, with the victims and with those opposed and those in favour of the new form of punishment.