Prison Realignment in California: What’s it Like Where the Rubber Meets the Road in Los Angeles?

• In Event: The Effects of Imprisonment on Recidivism

Abstract

This presentation will review preliminary findings from a mixed methods study, funded by the Los Angeles County Police Chiefs Association, of the consequences of AB 109—commonly known as Prison Realignment—in Los Angeles County. Using quantitative data from the FBI, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, and Los Angeles County, in addition to qualitative data gathered through interviews with police chiefs, deputy probation officers, and observation of AB 109 enforcement teams, this study examines whether crime and recidivism have increased as a result of this legislative change, in addition to the perceptions of criminal justice officials tasked with its implementation.

Authors

• Cassia Spohn, Arizona State University

• Katharine Tellis, California State University, Los Angeles