The Weak Probability of Punishment for Environmental Offenses and Deterrence of Environmental Offenders: A Discussion Based on USEPA Criminal Cases, 1983–2013
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2016
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
https://doi.org/10.1080/01639625.2016.1161455
Abstract
Numerous studies observe a decrease in environmental crimes following imposition of fines or penalties potentially due to general and specific deterrent effects. Here we explore whether those deterrent effects appear plausible by estimating the probability of a USEPA criminal case occurring each year between 1983 through 2013. Our analysis shows that there is an extremely low probability of an environmental crime case being prosecuted criminally by USEPA, casting doubt that these criminal cases are sufficiently widespread to generate a deterrent effect. We suggested that alternative theoretical orientations and policy initiatives be employed in studying and responding to environmental infractions.
Was this content written or created while at USF?
Yes
Citation / Publisher Attribution
Deviant Behavior, v. 37, issue 10, p. 1095-1109
Scholar Commons Citation
Lynch, Michael J.; Barrett, Kimberly L.; Stretesky, Paul B.; and Long, Michael A., "The Weak Probability of Punishment for Environmental Offenses and Deterrence of Environmental Offenders: A Discussion Based on USEPA Criminal Cases, 1983–2013" (2016). Criminology Faculty Publications. 40.
https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/cjp_facpub/40
