Poster #86 - Examining the Efficacy of Alternative to Incarceration Programming Conducted Virtually

• In Event: ASC Poster Session II

Abstract

Seemingly overnight, the COVID-19 pandemic necessitated exceptional efforts to move entire swaths of our daily lives to remote settings. The criminal justice system was no exception; court dates, visitation, and rehabilitative programming all swiftly adapted to be conducted virtually. While much of this work has since returned to being conducted in-person, remote options have continued to persist often because they are believed to be more flexible and accessible. This study explores the utility and limitations of remote programming administered to adult Alternative to Incarceration (ATI) participants charged with misdemeanor offenses in New York City. Remote interventions may offer convenience, but does the modality of an intervention affect the efficacy of the programming itself? The present study utilizes a qualitative analysis of feedback from past program participants in tandem with a quantitative analysis of attendance data collected for reporting programmatic compliance to relevant legal parties. As initial findings have suggested remote programming to ultimately be similarly effective to in-person programming, instead of being a relic of the pandemic, remote programming could continue to be adopted intentionally and expanding the prevalence of this modality could conserve both limited funding and resources while maximizing the number of individuals able to benefit.

Authors

• Lars Gundersen, Center for Justice Innovation

• Kristen Boligitz, Center for Justice Innovation

• Michael Liber, Center for Justice Innovation

• Darcy Hauslik, Center for Justice Innovation