In Montana 1948 prejudice plays a major role in Wesley's decision to punish Frank for his wrongdoing. Frank's position of privilege in the community has shielded him from the natural consequences of his criminal activities. David's family sees the Native Americans in their community as lower in legal stature than white people; what Frank has done is not a crime in their opinion since it happened to an Indian woman.

The official all-white jury in To Kill a Mockingbird finds Tom guilty although Atticus has proven him innocent of rape. After being wrongfully jailed, Tom is shot to death attempting to escape from prison. For all Atticus tried to do, he could not save Tom from the prejudice of a racist segment of his town. Their actions and perceived threats led to Tom's demise.