Square Pegs and Round Holes: Justice System Responses to the Opioid Crisis

• In Event: Criminal Justice Responses to the Opioid Epidemic

Abstract

National surveys and local statistics consistently show elevated rates of drug use amongst people who come into contact with the criminal justice system. A survey conducted by the Bureau of Justice Statistics covering 2007-2009 found that 18.9 percent of people serving jail sentences self-reported regular use of opioids. Other studies have found that risk of overdose is massively elevated during the period following reentry from prison. However, while some justice agencies have shifted their practice and adopted policies designed to address the risks associated with drug use and overdose, in many parts of the country agencies have been slow to respond. Furthermore, emergent and longstanding practices that prioritize enforcement over treatment may be undermining supportive initiatives and increasing overdose risk. This presentation will describe findings from a recent study of justice system responses to the opioid crisis based on: interviews with academics, policy makers and justice professionals; and in-depth case studies of two jurisdictions. The presentation will explore factors that can both support and limit the adoption of best practices for responding to drug use, describe commonly held beliefs and perceptions of health and justice professionals, and discuss issues of racial equity in responses to drug use and associated harms.

Authors

• Jim Parsons, Vera Institute of Justice

• Leah Pope, Vera Institute of Justice

• David Cloud, Vera Institute of Justice

• Jason Tan de Bibiana, Vera Institute of Justice

• Charlotte Miller, Vera Institute of Justice