Showcase: A Data-Driven Dashboard for Federal Criminal Sentencing
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Published:2023
Issue:6
Volume:24
Page:1479-1499
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ISSN:1536-9323
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Container-title:Journal of the Association for Information Systems
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language:en
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Short-container-title:JAIS
Author:
Vo Ace, ,Plachkinova Miloslava,
Abstract
The main purpose of the Sentencing Reform Act of 1984 was to provide more uniformity in sentencing
and reduce interjudge disparity. Subsequently, the act created the federal sentencing guidelines to offer
judges a possible sentencing range for offenses. However, since these recommendations were based on
historical data, the guidelines amplified existing biases and increased inequality and the
disproportionate sentencing of minorities. To address this problem, we developed an artifact called
“ShowCase”—a data-driven dashboard—that is grounded in penal theory, organizational context
theory, social bonds theory, and triangulation notion in design theory. The artifact helps judges make
fairer and more objective decisions by integrating a variety of data points. We used a design science
research methodology and mixed methods to guide the development and evaluation of the proposed
dashboard. Our research inquiry revealed the legal and extralegal factors that contribute to more
equitable judicial decisions. We also found support for integrating data science and more diverse
viewpoints in the sentencing process. Our study shows that a validated data-driven dashboard can be
used to promote fairness, objectivity, and transparency in the criminal justice system.
Publisher
Association for Information Systems
Subject
Computer Science Applications,Information Systems