policing the black man ch 7

What is the main idea of Chapter 7?

Prosecutors hold enormous power, and their decisions—though "race-neutral"—produce racial disparities that disproportionately harm Black men.

How can race-neutral decisions still lead to racial disparities?

Because prosecutors use broad discretion influenced by implicit bias and structural racism.

What did the Baldus Study show?

Defendants who killed white victims were far more likely to receive the death penalty than those who killed Black victims.

Why are Black victims treated differently in the justice system?

Their cases receive less attention, fewer resources, and less media coverage.

Why does prosecutor diversity matter?

More diverse offices show fewer racial disparities in charging and sentencing.

What did the Women's Donor Network study reveal about prosecutors?

It found that 95% of elected prosecutors are white and about 80% are white men.

How do Black-led prosecutor offices differ?

They show reduced racial disparities in decision-making.

Who controls plea bargains?

Prosecutors control the charges and the terms of plea deals.

What percentage of cases end in plea bargains?

Around 95-97% of criminal cases are resolved through plea deals.

Why are plea bargains important in racial disparity?

Because prosecutors can offer harsher or more lenient deals, and bias can influence those decisions.

What role does implicit bias play in prosecution?

It shapes judgments unconsciously, making Black defendants appear more threatening or guilty.

Why is prosecutorial power a major concern?

Prosecutors decide charges, sentences, and plea deals with very little oversight.

Why is transparency in prosecution important?

Without transparency, racial disparities remain hidden and prosecutors rarely face accountability.

What does Davis argue needs to change?

Increased oversight, transparency, diversity, and reforms to reduce racial bias in prosecutorial decisions.