After the incident: Traffic fatality arrests, cases, and outcomes in Philadelphia

• In Event: Innovation and Reform in Prosecution: Outreach, Declination, Diversion, and Case Outcomes

Abstract

Traffic fatalities are a preventable public health crisis in Philadelphia, with more than a hundred residents losing their lives in crashes annually. These tragic events are often covered in the media in the wake of a fatality, but less attention is given longer-term: was an arrest made? What happened to any criminal cases stemming from these incidents? What is the big picture when you look at all traffic fatalities together? To better understand what happens after the incident, the Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office, utilizing data provided by the Philadelphia Police Department, sought to answer three questions: 1) How many incidents lead to an arrest and a case being opened; 2) How have traffic fatality incidents, arrests, and cases changed over the past decade, and 3) What were the most prevalent case outcomes? To help capture nuances and properly interpret the data, we consulted with attorneys in our office who charge and handle these cases. Our goal with this analysis was to offer the public insights into this issue by providing what we believe is the first comprehensive analysis of the systemic criminal legal response following a traffic fatality in Philadelphia. We conclude by discussing implications for policy and practice.

Authors

• Charles J. Arayata, Philadelphia District Attorney's Office

• Juncheng Liu, Philadelphia District Attorney's Office

• Oren Gur, Philadelphia District Attorney's Office

• Wes Weaver, Philadelphia District Attorney's Office