RT Article
T1 An examination of sentencing outcomes in rural and urban locations
JF American journal of criminal justice
VO 48
IS 3
SP 701
OP 722
A1 Ruhland, Ebony L.
A2 Holmes, Bryan
LA English
YR 2023
UL https://krimdok.uni-tuebingen.de/Record/1883308739
AB Previous studies have examined extralegal variables that influence sentencing outcomes. In this study, we examine the role of location on sentencing outcomes. Using data from the Minnesota Sentencing Guidelines, we hypothesize that rural counties are more likely to sentence individuals to prison compared to urban counties. With the growth of community alternatives and decarceration, we believe urban areas will utilize community-based sanctions more whereas rural areas have limited alternatives or barriers to accessing them and thus, will rely on incarceration. Controlling for legal and extralegal factors, the findings illustrate how sentencing practices differ by location as it relates to the use of community alternatives, jail incarceration, and state prison. The implications offer insights into what may explain these differences.
DO 10.1007/s12103-022-09678-5