The role of the criminal justice system is to prevent crime and promote public safety. Current research indicates successful systems focus on pre-trial diversion, rehabilitation and preventing recidivism. Some communities experience excessive force and surveillance by the police. People waste away in prisons serving extreme sentences. A growing national bipartisan consensus exists that the current criminal justice system needs reform to ensure its constitutionality and cost effectiveness, community participation is essential.
The most effective criminal justice reforms consider the safety and well being of both peace officers and the communities they serve, especially people most impacted. It’s time to re-think the humanity of those who do harm, as well as understand the support — e.g. adequate training, clear performance standards, mental health services — required by law enforcement.
"It is our committee's goal to encourage everyone to reform the criminal justice system through education and advocacy."
Get involved in education and advocacy for criminal justice reform:
- For the California public: California Criminal Justice Committee main page
- For California Local Leagues & members: California Local League Criminal Justice Toolkit
- For Leagues & members outside of California: National League Engagement page
