The Vera Institute of Justice released a report on September 27 that follows the course of criminal justice legislation for the past ten years. Criminal Justice Trends: Key Legislative Changes in Sentencing Policy, 2001 - 2010 gives an in depth look on how, and why, policy changed. Beginning with the 1980’s - 1990’s tough-on-crime stance that permeated into the next decade, the criminal justice system gradually started to redefine itself as the economy worsened and budgets had to be cut. By 2009, new policies were being sought, and implemented. By 2010, a three-pronged attack on the old system made reform a reality.
While there is still room for improvement, the report provides three areas where reform was generated:
1) Redefining and Reclassifying Criminal Offenses
2) Strengthening Alternatives to Incarceration
3) Reducing Prison Terms
The report also details how various states revised their criminal codes, or otherwise revamped legislation, to develop smart-on-crime policies. To read the complete report Click here to go to website
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