Justice Reinvestment: A Review of the Existing Literature

• In Event: Corrections Reform in Partnership with those Directly Impacted

Abstract

In attempting to reduce correctional costs, many states have enacted Justice Reinvestment initiatives. Justice Reinvestment initiatives are data-driven approaches that strive to improve public safety, while reducing the costs of corrections by reallocating resources to evidence based practices that reduce recidivism. The process usually involves identifying areas that increase numbers of offenders and subsequently the costs of corrections, and implementing policies and procedures that reduce the costs of corrections without compromising public safety. Evidence-based policies that have been implemented by various states include implementation of graduated sanctions in returning offenders to prison, implementation of risk assessment instruments, and increasing the amount of community programs and resources.
The purpose of this paper is to organize the literature on justice reinvestment initiatives. This paper will use a systematic review technique to organize the diverse justice reinvestment initiatives and assess factors associated with reductions in recidivism.

Authors

• Mirlinda Ndrecka, University of New Haven

• Anne Li Kringen, University of New Haven