Which concept illustrates the criminal justice system as a funnel, indicating that many cases enter but only a few result in severe legal outcomes?

The concept that illustrates the criminal justice system as a funnel is best represented by the idea of the criminal justice assembly line. This metaphor emphasizes how numerous cases begin within the system but only a small fraction progress through each stage to reach severe legal outcomes, such as incarceration or significant convictions. It highlights the filtering process where many cases are resolved at various points, such as through plea bargains, dismissals, or other outcomes rather than going to trial.

In this assembly line perspective, the initial high volume of cases entering the system gradually decreases as they are processed. Each stage involves decisions that lead to some cases being dropped or resolved without severe penalties, underscoring the efficiency and selective nature of the judicial process. This concept captures the reality that not all arrests lead to significant legal consequences, illustrating the attrition that occurs as cases move through the system.