The influence of victim impact statements and offender character on sentencing and parole decisions

Abstract

Victims can provide evidence at sentencing and parole hearings that describe the physical, emotional, and financial harm they have suffered due to the offence. Similarly, offenders can provide evidence of their good character or resources that support rehabilitation. This thesis aimed to examine the roles that evidence from victims and offenders have on judicial decision-making at sentencing and parole board outcomes. Study one analyzed 1992 Canadian sentencing decisions and found that victim impact statements and offender character evidence predict incarceration. The effect of victim impact statements was greater when offender evidence was absent than when it was present. Study two examined 55 Parole Board of Canada parole decisions to investigate victim statements and letters of support but found no relationship with parole outcomes. These results provide insight about which variables may influence decision makers in the justice system. Implications for offenders, crime victims, judges, and parole board members are discussed.