Gangs on Trial: Challenging Stereotypes and Demonization in the Courts

John Hagedorn's book "Gangs on Trial" explores how stereotypes are used against gang members on trial, how implicit bias replaces evidence, and how the demonization of gang members undermines fairness. He advocates for practical sentencing reforms and humanizing justice.

Format: Hardback
Length: 246 pages
Publication date: 12 January 2022
Publisher: Temple University Press,U.S.

John Hagedorn, a renowned expert witness in gang-related court cases, argues that the trials of gang members often deviate from what we would consider justice. In his book, Gangs on Trial, Hagedorn shares his extensive experience to expose how stereotypes are unfairly used against gang members during legal proceedings. He highlights the harmful consequences of this bias, emphasizing how it often replaces evidence and undermines the fairness of the judicial system. Through real-life stories, Hagedorn illustrates how implicit bias creeps into the legal process, overshadowing the complexities of gang life in America. Moreover, the pervasive "them and us" mentality leads to quick judgments that fail to acknowledge the nuances and intricacies of gang involvement.

Gangs on Trial challenges misconceptions about gangs and provides valuable strategies for lawyers, mitigation specialists, expert witnesses, and jurors. Hagedorn delves into how minds are subconsciously influenced when a defendant is labeled a gang member, discussing the "backfire effect" that occurs when jurors hear arguments contrary to their beliefs. He also uncovers how attributional errors, prejudice, and racism impact the sentences of nonwhite defendants.

Hagedorn argues that dehumanization serves as the psychological basis for mass incarceration. Through his advocacy, Gangs on Trial calls for practical sentencing reforms and a shift towards humanizing justice. The book emphasizes the importance of understanding the backgrounds and circumstances of gang members, as well as the need to address the root causes of crime and violence. By promoting empathy and compassion, Hagedorn aims to create a more equitable and just society for all.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781439922309