NCJ Number
199071
Date Published
June 2001
Length
146 pages
Annotation
This document identifies key issues and recommendations for criminal justice in the State of Illinois.
Abstract
The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority developed this planning process in 1999 to guide its administration of Federal grant funds. The priority issues identified point to critical needs in five areas: Information, Collaboration, Utilization of Resources, Services, and Accountability. There is a gap in critical information about juvenile offenders and the juvenile justice system; the needs of victims; information sharing within the criminal justice system; and cybercrime. The importance of collaboration between criminal justice agencies must be recognized, as well as the collaboration of community residents and service providers. Multidisciplinary meetings, joint planning conferences, and forums must continue at the State, regional, and local levels. The State must make more effective use of personnel and programs, as well as recognize the differences in needs for the various regions, enhance training for victim services, and expand use of new forensic science technology. Adult offender treatment, crime victim, and juvenile services need to be expanded. Specific recommendations are to respond to risk factors as a delinquency prevention measure; improve mental health services for juveniles; and provide basic services to all victims of crime. The system must be held more accountable to crime victims, and a commitment is needed to change on the part of the justice system stakeholders. The plan identifies 21 criminal justice priorities, as well as specific goals and objectives set for each, and recommended action steps in the areas of research and evaluation, funding, legislation, policy, and other strategic initiatives. 3 appendices