NCJ Number
238405
Date Published
April 2010
Length
68 pages
Annotation
This report is the principal product of an initiative to build a systemwide framework (arrest through final disposition and discharge) that will result in more collaborative, evidence-based decisionmaking and practices in local criminal justice systems.
Abstract
The proposed framework describes key criminal justice decisions, evidence-based knowledge about effective justice practices, and practical local-level strategies for applying risk and harm-reduction principles and techniques. The framework is based on evidence from empirical studies in the fields of organizational management, evidence-based practice in criminal justice and behavioral health, and collaborative processes. The report is presented in eight sections. The first section identifies the core values of the justice system reflected in the framework for the development and implementation of evidence based programs and policies. Another section outlines the key decision points, decisionmakers, and stakeholders in the criminal justice system. A third section provides guidance in examining justice system decisionmaking "through the lens" of harm-reduction. The fourth section outlines the four principles underlying the framework, followed by a section on how to apply evidence-based principles to practice. A section on key challenges in implementing the framework focuses on risk-reduction and evidence-based decisionmaking as applied to sanctioning purpose, plea negotiations, and the management of low-level offenses. The section on collaboration as a key component of an evidence-based system, addresses the alignment of the criminal justice system to achieve harm-reduction, as well as bringing all stakeholders to the table to form policy teams. The concluding section discusses the organizing of criminal justice agencies to achieve harm reduction, as well as how to implement evidence-based policies, procedures, and programs. The second phase of this initiative will identify jurisdictions that are interested in piloting the framework so as to build information and tools that support the framework's implementation. A 138-item bibliography and appended supplementary information on the logistics involved in developing the framework