Benefit-Cost Analysis of a Pretrial Program: Remote Versus Hybrid Pretrial Supervision - CANCELLED

• In Event: Pretrial Supervision

Abstract

Jurisdictions across the country increasingly rely on alternatives to pretrial detention, such as pretrial supervision, which typically requires released people to meet regularly with supervision staff members while their cases are pending. Pretrial supervision has traditionally required clients to report for in-person meetings; however, with the onset of COVID-19, many programs shifted to remote check-ins. A recent RCT conducted in Queens, NY, compared remote pretrial supervision to hybrid pretrial supervision. The study found that remote supervision was as effective as hybrid supervision in terms of clients’ court appearance and avoidance of new felony arrests and improved their supervision attendance and compliance. The study also found that remote supervision may benefit clients through reduced transportation burdens and costs, improve clients’ ability to manage other responsibilities, and reduce administrative and operational costs for pretrial providers. The current study builds on the RCT findings using a formal benefit-cost analysis to convert the various costs and benefits of remote versus hybrid pretrial supervision to monetary amounts. It will provide valuable evidence to jurisdictions considering adopting remote supervision practices.

Authors

• Anna Kyler, MDRC

• Melanie Skemer, MDRC

• Emily Brennan, MDRC