Paying for Crime - by Susan K Sarnoff (Hardcover)

About the Book

Who should bear the financial and social costs of the consequences of crime? In answer to this question, this book offers a comprehensive review of the public and private benefits currently available to compensate victims for the losses suffered as a result of crime. The author analyzes the social philosophy and legislative policy behind such remedies as restitution, private insurance, and civil litigation, notes their histories and their limitations, and makes recommendations for ways that each can be improved.

Book Synopsis

Who should bear the financial and social costs of the consequences of crime? In answer to this question, this book offers a comprehensive review of the public and private benefits currently available to compensate victims for the losses suffered as a result of crime. The author analyzes the social philosophy and legislative policy behind such remedies as restitution, private insurance, and civil litigation, notes their histories and their limitations, and makes recommendations for ways that each can be improved.

Review Quotes

"Provides a 'state of the art' review of U.S. state compensation programs, and of reimbursement alternatives such as restitution, private insurance, social welfare, and civil litigation...I highly recommend the book for victim advocates, policymakers, and victim researchers."-Robert Elias Professor of Politics, University of San Francisco

"Sarnoff provides a well researched, even-handed analysis of crime victim reimbursement history, policy and budget. This book is a must read for any policymaker, professional or student who would advance the American agenda of meaningful recompense for victims of crime."-Frank M. Ochberg, M.D. Michigan Victims Alliance

"This book fills a crucial gap in the professional literature. It will prove a valuable resource for instructors in victimology and social work courses, students preparing for careers in which they will encounter crime victims, and advocates in the victims' rights movement. It is thorough, well researched, accurate, and balanced. Dr. Sarnoff presents a careful and thoughtful analysis of 'what currently exists' but also outlines a compassionate yet realistic vision of 'what should be.'"-Andrew Karman Professor of Sociology, John Jay College of Criminal Justice

About the Author

SUSAN KISS SARNOFF has worked in the field of crime victim advocacy for the past two decades. She is a founder and former director of the Adelphi Resource Center for Crime Victim Advocates at Adelphi University.