Prosecutor Data – Where is it Now and Where is it Going?

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Author: PCE

A modern prosecutor embraces and uses data. Data is central to a prosecutor’s work as it can inform policy decisions, guide management, provide transparency and allow for research. The vision has yet to be fully realized, but it is encouraging that there is a growing awareness both inside and outside of prosecutor offices of the critical need for data.

This paper gives an overview of the current state of prosecution data, summarizes the data challenges faced by prosecutors, identifies new trends that are springing up in prosecutor offices, and poses questions for the future.

Diversion & Treatment

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Featured Resource

Research has shown that incarceration may not always be the most effective solution for certain crimes and certain situations. To achieve better results, diversion and treatment must be taken into consideration. These programs can vary wildly with approaches often tailored to each jurisdiction. Our resources explore what has worked in offices across the country and what challenges have been faced as these diversion programs are implemented. 

  • mental illness report

    Victims, Witnesses, and Defendants with Mental Illness or Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

    Authors: Arc, NAMI, PCE

    Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) or mental illness are overrepresented in the criminal justice system, as victims, witnesses, suspects, and defendants. In an effort to inform prosecutors’ strategies when working with these individuals, PCE, in collaboration with the Arc and NAMI, has developed this guide.

    The guide includes the following information:

    • An overview of I/DD and mental illness and the legal obligations involved when interacting with people with I/ DD or mental illness
    • Practical approaches for prosecutors to more effectively work with these populations, as victims, witnesses, or defendants
    • Examples of programs that prosecutors have either created or participated in that address the involvement of persons with I/DD or mental illness in the criminal justice system

Additional PCE Resources

Prosecutor Data Dashboards

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To increase transparency and inform the public about the criminal justice system, prosecutor offices have developed data dashboards. The comprehensive public data and resources provide a detailed view of the role of the prosecutor.

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