Reducing Pretrial Populations: Findings from a Municipal Court Pretrial Program in Missoula, Montana

• In Event: Issues and Challenges in Reducing Jail Populations: Lessons Learned from the Safety and Justice Challenge

Abstract

Traditional pretrial service programs order participation in services to monitor and enforce compliance with court-ordered release conditions. More recently, some pretrial service programs have begun offering supportive services to address challenges and unmet needs that may pose a barrier to succeeding on pretrial release. Under the Safety and Justice Challenge, Missoula launched the Pretrial Assistance to Support Success (PASS) program under the Municipal Court. PASS provides court reminders and voluntary support services for people charged with misdemeanor crimes who are at moderate-to-high risk of failing to appear for court and do not pose a risk to public safety. With this approach, PASS intends to reduce the local jail population by offering an alternative to pretrial detention and providing the support necessary to ensure compliance with release conditions. This paper presents findings on the PASS program, including lessons learned from design and implementation, perceptions of impact, successes, challenges, and sustainability efforts. Findings are based on qualitative interviews with PASS program stakeholders, analysis of jail population trends data, and a review of program documents. This paper provides reflections for jurisdictions who seek to reduce their pretrial population, lessen the frequency of nonappearances in court, and address this population’s needs in the community.

Authors

• Mary Hayford, Urban Institute

• Paige S. Thompson, Urban Institute