NCJ Number
154096
Journal
Prosecutor Volume: 29 Issue: 2 Dated: (March/April 1995) Pages: 18-21
Date Published
1995
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article presents a prosecution model ("TARGET") used by prosecutors in Orange County, Calif., to prosecute gang cases.
Abstract
One aspect of the model is "vertical" prosecution, which involves the same prosecutor handling a case from filing to sentencing. The prosecutor is thereby able to identify deficiencies in the case early and correct them. The TARGET program "targets" gang leadership and the chronic recidivists. It also combines the three major components of the criminal justice system into a single unit located at the police department. The TARGET unit includes a prosecution component of one experienced deputy district attorney and one district attorney investigator, a police department component of one sergeant and two police investigators, and a probation component of one deputy probation officer. The model uses intelligence gathering and information sharing to identify and select appropriate individuals and gangs for intervention. TARGET subjects are closely watched for new criminal activity. If a violation occurs, no matter how minor, the incident is thoroughly and immediately investigated by unit detectives. The prosecutor provides timely, continuous input concerning legal requirements, strategies, and prosecution needs. After filing, the district attorney investigator maintains close and continuing contact with witnesses pending trial. Program evaluation research has documented a 62-percent decrease in serious gang-related crime in 1993 from the 1991 baseline year.