Pretrial Defendants’ Perceptions of Risk, Needs, and Strengths During the Pretrial Period

• In Event: Understanding the Use of Risk Assessments and Effectiveness of Treating Criminogenic Needs During the Pretrial Period

Abstract

Background. Despite the growth of risk-informed pretrial decision-making, there has been less emphasis placed on the role of criminogenic needs and protective factors as predictors of misconduct and potential contributors to disparities in pretrial outcomes. The goal of this study was to assess defendants’ perceptions of their own criminogenic risks and needs during the pretrial period, including racial differences in perceptions. Method. We conducted surveys with pretrial defendants across 12 local jurisdictions in Indiana (anticipated N = 200). Surveys were administered online via Qualtrics and included information on perceived challenges and facilitators during pretrial, substance use and mental health screenings, risk assessment history, and perceptions of the pretrial period and the purpose of the criminal-legal system as a whole. In addition to descriptive and bivariable analyses, we examined Black-White differences in the top ranked risk and protective factors, mental health and substance use screening scores, risk assessment history and knowledge, and perceptions of criminal-legal decision-making. Results. Results will report preliminary findings on the highest perceived criminogenic risks, needs, and perceptions overall and between Black and White defendants. Implications. Findings will inform considerations for reducing pretrial detention rates and inform opportunities for services and supports during pretrial supervision.

Authors

• Peyton Frye, George Mason University

• Evan Lowder, George Mason University

• Janani Umamaheswar, George Mason University

• Chelsea M.A. Foudray, George Mason University

• Sydney Ingel, George Mason University

• Jae-lynn Tavarez-Brown, George Mason University