The patterns of disproportionate arrests generate more extensive criminal histories for minorities and may influence sentencing outcomes of longer prison terms in average. ... During 1989-1990, a white felony defendant with no criminal record stood a 33% chance of having the charge reduced to a misdemeanor or infraction, compared to 25% for a similarly situated black or Hispanic. ...

• Word Count: 2471
• Approx Pages: 10
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• Grade Level: Undergraduate