“White Collar Crime” Sutherland’s Definition –Coined “white collar crime” –People of “status” in course of “occupation” Types of White collar crime –Corporate crime –Government crime –Occupational Crime –Organized crime

Causes of W.C.C.? Have we covered any theories that can explain something like corporate crime? –Why do millionaires break the law to get more money?

Sutherland W.C.C. as “learned behavior” –Learn “rationalizations” and techniques –Not really “crime” but crafty business techniques “Bait and Switch” “Price Fixing” –“Corporate Culture”

Rational Choice Theory The benefit ($) outweighs the cost (CJS penalties) The “risk” of getting caught is relatively low (low certainty)

Messner and Rosefeld? The “American Dream Ethos” –Monetary success is unlimited –All pressured to get “MORE”

Low Self-control Desire for quick certain benefit with minimal effort W.C.C. as “rare” because most business executives have high self-control

Theories not well equipped to explain WCC? Merton (goals and means) –Most have “means” to achieve legitimately Informal Social Control –Most have much to “risk” should they get caught

How Can we Prevent W.C.C.? Compliance Strategies –Create environment where compliance is rewarded ($ incentives) –Internal audits, insurance industry as watch- dog, whistle-blowers hotline –Administrative Oversight Securities and Exchange Commission

Preventing W.C.C. II Deterrence—criminal penalties –Assumption made: criminal behavior is rational (WCC vs. “street crimes” –Criminal punishment rare—usually punish the more powerless businesses –Not “real criminals” don’t deserve prison –Most cases heard in civil court CONFLICT THEORY!!!!!!

“Organized Crime” Is there really a “mafia?” –Myth created by media and a few felons or truth? –How “organized” is organized crime? Is the “mafia” on the decline? –RICO enforcement –The “geritol gang” –Infusion of street gangs and different ethnic groups

“Blue Collar Crime” Crimes committed by people of lower status as part of their occupation –Steal from work (property, $) –Tax evasion