AJ Assignment – Cаpstоne Cаse & Cаse Law Analysis Cоurse: Criminal JusticeTextbоok: Criminal Justice Today (16th Edition)Author: Frank SchmallegerTopic: Death PenaltyPages: 377–378 (Capstone Case) & 386 (Table 11.5)Points: 30 Introduction: The Death Penalty The death penalty, or capital punishment, is one of the most controversial issues in the American criminal justice system. It involves the legal execution of individuals convicted of serious crimes, most often murder. Courts have addressed whether the death penalty violates constitutional protections, especially under the Eighth Amendment, which prohibits cruel and unusual punishment. Through this assignment, students will examine a real case and analyze major court decisions that have shaped how the death penalty is applied in the United States. Part I – Capstone Case Analysis (Pages 377–378) Instructions Read the Capstone Case on pages 377–378 carefully. In your own words, complete the following: A. Case Summary (Minimum 350 words) Explain the facts of the case Identify the main legal issue Describe what led to the case being reviewed B. Layman’s Explanation Explain the case in simple terms so that someone with no legal background can understand it C. Questions (Minimum 50 words each) Answer the question(s) at the end of the Capstone Case Number each response Provide clear and detailed explanations Part II – Case Law Analysis (Table 11.5, Page 386) Instructions Students must review Table 11.5 on page 386, which lists important U.S. Supreme Court cases related to the death penalty. Your Task Identify EVERY case listed in Table 11.5 List them in the exact order shown in the table For each case, you must: State the name of the case Explain what occurred in the case Explain what the Court decided (the ruling) Formatting Requirements Number each case in order (1, 2, 3, etc.) Minimum 50 words per case Use complete sentences Maintain the exact sequence from the textbook Do not skip any cases Overall Assignment Requirements Minimum 700 words total Typed directly into Canvas Use your own words only Must clearly show understanding of the reading Responses must be organized and numbered correctly Academic Integrity Policy (No AI Use) AI use is strictly prohibited No copy and paste No Grammarly or editing tools You must check your assignment for AI detection before submitting If AI detection exceeds 20–25%, you must revise and resubmit before the deadline Assignments submitted with AI will receive a ZERO No make-ups for AI violations Honorlock Requirement This assignment may require Honorlock monitoring: Must use a laptop or Chromebook A valid photo ID is required Video monitoring may be enabled Copy/paste may be restricted If technical issues occur, students must contact Honorlock support immediately (24/7).Failure to do so will not excuse late submissions. Rubric (30 Points Total) Criteria Points Part I: Case Summary & Understanding 10 Part I: Question Responses 5 Part II: Case Law Accuracy & Detail 10 Organization, Format, Directions 5 Closing Summary The death penalty continues to be a major legal and ethical issue in the United States. By analyzing both a real case and key Supreme Court decisions, students gain a deeper understanding of how the law interprets justice, fairness, and constitutional rights. This assignment strengthens critical thinking and helps students evaluate the role of the courts in shaping capital punishment.