Search

Washington Monthly
America Doesn’t Need Public Mugshots of Donald Trump or Joe Blow

By Marc A. Levin and Khalil A. Cumberbatch

Americans may have increasingly different perspectives, but virtually all of them recognize the face of former President Donald Trump. Sure, some have seen enough of him, while others eagerly await his every word, but seeing a mugshot of him wouldn’t advance justice for any of us.  

Even if one had been taken at his arraignment, as in nearly every other criminal case, it would almost certainly not have been released. That’s because New York State adopted legislation four years ago limiting the public dissemination of mugshots. Most states lack such protection, though some, including North Carolina, are now considering it. 

Recent Posts

Artificial Intelligence

The Implications of AI for Criminal Justice

In June 2024, the Council convened a group of experts and stakeholders to discuss the implications of AI for the U.S. criminal justice system. The meeting brought together a diverse group of leading stakeholders from across ideologies, disciplines, and sectors of the system

Read More »
Women's Justice Commission

Meeting Bulletin #2: August 2024

During its second meeting, the commission examined policing as a possible intervention point for justice-involved women, focusing on the efficacy of law enforcement responses to women in crises.

Read More »