Habitat Sphere

Crime on Mars

Although the colonists are very thoroughly screened to prevent crime on Mars, the potential for crime does exist. This means that a judicial system is necessary. The judicial system of Koinae consists of a panel of colonists who listen to each side plead their case. Instead of having a courtroom-style trial, the colonists prefer mediations.

Crimes on Mars would be very devastating. Not only would they lose whatever goods the criminal stole or ruined, but they would also lose a valuable worker. Also, it is not easy for the colonists to deal with a criminal. Traditional jails do not work, because the colony cannot afford to support someone who is not working.

On the other hand, the colonists cannot send him/her back to Earth until a transport ship comes, which could be up to three months. So, the colonists would have to resort to using the criminal as a laborer, in an area such as the galley. So far, there has been no reported crime in the colony, but the possibility is still there.

Teen Court is a volunteer organization in some communities in the United States for youth offenders. It gives youth offenders a chance to keep their crime off their permanent record. Participants admit their guilt and agree to abide the sentence given by a jury of his/her peers. Sentences include community service and other duties ordered by the court.

If you have a Teen Court in your community, see about being a lawyer or a juror in it. If you don't have Teen Court, check out this other awesome ThinkQuest web site for more information on Teen Court and how you might be able to get it for your community.