The Impact of Pretrial Detention on Those Found Legally Innocent in New York City: A Qualitative Inquiry

• In Event: Emerging Issues and Innovative Methods in Pretrial Justice

Abstract

Among those detained pretrial, a significant but often overlooked number of people experience the harms of incarceration but are not convicted for the crime of which they are accused. Relatively little previous research has explored the impacts that pretrial detention can have on their lives. This study aims to bridge this gap by qualitatively investigating the experiences, perspectives, and service needs of individuals who experienced pretrial detention but whose were eventually dismissed or acquitted. We conducted 30 trauma-informed in-depth interviews with topics covering early exposure to the criminal legal system; pretrial detention experiences; resource security upon release; and beliefs and attitudes towards the criminal legal system and police. Preliminary results highlight the climate of violence and lack of autonomy participants experienced in jail, participants’ unique perception of legal innocence, and their keen understanding of the cycles of crime in poverty. The qualitative nature of this research heightens participants’ voices, broadens understanding of the unique harm caused by pretrial detention for this population, and highlights the ways in which reentry services can better support these individuals upon release. 

Authors

• Anjini Patel, New York City Criminal Justice Agency

• Raven Simonds, New York City Criminal Justice Agency

• Jamala Wallace, New York City Criminal Justice Agency