NCJ Number
188645
Journal
The Prosecutor Volume: 35 Issue: 2 Dated: March/April 2001 Pages: 26-28,30-32,33
Date Published
March 2001
Length
7 pages
Annotation
Community prosecution is emerging nationally as a fundamental change in how prosecutors operate. The results of this survey involve the jurisdiction size and involvement in community prosecution; the nature and elements of community prosecution; and regional differences.
Abstract
Community prosecution is the involvement of the criminal justice system, including prosecutors, in building partnerships with communities, incorporating the priorities of citizens into their mission, engaging in problem-solving activities and crime prevention, and focusing on the quality of life. A random sample of 308 offices across the Nation was surveyed to identify jurisdictions engaged in or planning to implement community prosecution in the next year. A total response rate of 56 percent was received. In addition, a random sample of respondents was selected for in-depth telephone interviews. A response rate of 62 percent was completed. The respondents’ reasons for becoming involved in community prosecution were to address a particular community concern; as a result of information obtained at a conference or seminar; in response to community policing; and to obtain grant funding. Offices that reported practicing community prosecution were more likely to discuss non-case specific activities with community groups, businesses, civic groups and schools. In addition, they were more likely to coordinate with police on problem-solving initiatives and to participate in task forces. There were regional differences in how community prosecution was defined and implemented. For example, offices in the Northeast employed a wider range of strategies than offices elsewhere in the country. Community prosecution is not necessarily a new phenomenon but there is a national movement toward implementing this program. 7 references and 3 footnotes.