Supporting justice-involved people with extreme complex needs in the Australian community: a third sector practice perspective

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Natalia Hanley ◽  
Helen Simpson ◽  
Juan M. Tauri
Keyword(s):  
Intellectual Disability ◽  
Criminal Justice ◽  
Justice System ◽  
Third Sector ◽  
Relationship Building ◽  
Customer Relationship ◽  
High Quality ◽  
Criminal Justice Agency ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Effective Work

Purpose This qualitative research aims to explore staff perspectives on working effectively with people with intellectual disability who are in contact with the criminal justice system. Design/methodology/approach Taking a case study approach, staff working for a third sector community organisation were interviewed about the components of effective work with their customers. The staff supported people engaged in the Community Justice Program. Findings Staff consistently described relationship building as the most important part of their work. There were three components to relationship building: the process of relationship building, the elements of a high-quality staff–customer relationship and the staff skills needed to develop a good relationship. Originality/value This paper makes two contributions to the literature. First, it focuses our attention on a third sector organisation supporting people in contact with the justice system as opposed to a formal criminal justice agency. Second, the paper seeks to understand the processes and skills staff deploy to build a high-quality relationship with criminal justice-involved people with intellectual disability.

Feasibility and reliability of screening on mild to borderline intellectual disabilities using SCIL through video-administration

2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Nienke Agnes Spaan ◽  
Matthijs Verzaal ◽  
Hendrien Lourine Kaal
Keyword(s):  
Health Care ◽  
Learning Disabilities ◽  
Intellectual Disability ◽  
Criminal Justice ◽  
Justice System ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Weighted Kappa ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Face To Face ◽  
Video Link

Purpose In the Netherlands, the Screener for Intelligence and Learning Disabilities (SCIL) was developed to aid recognition of mild to borderline intellectual disability (MBID) early in the criminal justice system or health-care trajectory. In situations where physically meeting the suspect or client is not feasible, administration of the SCIL using a video-link might be a solution. This paper aims to examine whether the SCIL is still reliable when administered remotely instead of face-to-face. Design/methodology/approach The SCIL was administered twice to a total of 89 respondents: once face-to-face, once using a video link, in varying order and with an interval of at least six weeks. A laptop with a Skype connection was used for the remote administration, while an assistant was present to make sure the respondents did not have to perform technical actions. After the second SCIL administration, respondents were asked to answer a series of evaluation questions. Findings Respondents were generally satisfied with both methods of administration of the SCIL. However, they were in general more positive about face-to-face administration. Nevertheless, most respondents would be willing to undergo administration through video-link in future. On average, respondents scored slightly lower on the SCIL when administered remotely (µ = 16.31, SE = 0 0.77) than with face-to-face administration (µ = 16.94, SE = 0.78), t(88) = 2.47, p = 0 0.015. Calculation of the reliability of the assessment “suspected MBID” showed a (linear weighted) Kappa of 0.77, p = 0.000, 95% RI: 0.64-0.90. Originality/value The results of this study show that with some caution, the SCIL can be administered remotely. When doing this, the SCIL will only lead to a small number of respondents being wrongly labelled as “suspected MBID”.

Reforming the criminal justice system – an ethical leadership approach

2017 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 64-75 ◽  
Author(s):  
Verl Anderson ◽  
Riki Ichiho
Keyword(s):  
Criminal Justice ◽  
Criminal Justice System ◽  
Ethical Leadership ◽  
Justice System ◽  
Ethical Issues ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Public ◽  
Moral Perspective ◽  
Conceptual Paper ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose The current criminal justice system is pledged to serve and protect society while preserving the rights of those who are accused. The purpose of this paper is to explore the premise of “innocent until proven guilty” and examine whether this assumption truly prevails under the current criminal justice system, or be modified to accommodate a sliding continuum of virtuosity. Design/methodology/approach This paper is a conceptual paper which relies heavily on the current literature about criminal justice and related ethical issues. Findings The paper argues that today’s criminal justice system fails to meet the standards of the virtuous continuum and that those who oversee that system need to rethink how the system operates and is perceived by the public if they wish the criminal justice system to be perceived as just, fair, and ethically responsible. Research limitations/implications Because this paper is a conceptual paper it does not present research hypotheses. Practical implications This paper suggests that “virtue” and “ethics” must be the foundation upon which the criminal justice system is evaluated, and criminal justice must incorporate an ethical standard which is virtuous and fair to all parties and leaders who oversee that system must meet the standards suggested by the virtuous continuum. Originality/value This paper is among the first to identify the viewpoint of the virtuous perspective, moral perspective, amoral perspective, and immoral perspective in the criminal justice system.

Cultural competence in criminal justice

2015 ◽  
Vol 23 (5) ◽  
pp. 39-42
Author(s):  
Angela Herbert MBE
Keyword(s):  
Criminal Justice ◽  
Cultural Competence ◽  
Criminal Justice System ◽  
Justice System ◽  
Chief Executive ◽  
Skills Training ◽  
Voluntary Organizations ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Government ◽  
Minority Ethnic

Purpose – Considers the role of cultural competence in the criminal-justice system and the crucial role that can be played by the right kind of training. Design/methodology/approach – Argues that there are no quick solutions to disproportionality of black and minority ethnic people in the criminal-justice system but advances the view that while individuals are incarcerated, it is important for the organization and its staff to make provisions that will make a difference. Findings – Suggests that any training provision should be made subject to those industries that are likely to employ black minority ethnic (BME) people, and that offering skills in prison that do not reflect cultural attainment in industry would be setting individuals up to fail. Practical implications – Urges that awareness and training should be embraced throughout all organizations from government policymakers, chief executive officers, management board, operational staff and partners, voluntary organizations and the client or user. Social implications – Argues that commitment from the government and the prison service can result in the provision of the kinds of cultural-competence learning and skills training that can more appropriately meet the needs of, in particular, BME individuals who are frequently ill-equipped when they leave the judiciary system. Originality/value – Concludes that this support would also help to communicate and promote awareness of other people’s cultures, provide insight into their understanding of the organization’s culture while also enabling the public to understand the importance of implementing positive change.

The importance of external stakeholders for police body-worn camera diffusion

2018 ◽  
Vol 41 (4) ◽  
pp. 448-464 ◽  
Author(s):  
Natalie Todak ◽  
Janne E. Gaub ◽  
Michael D. White
Keyword(s):  
Criminal Justice ◽  
Criminal Justice System ◽  
Diffusion Of Innovations ◽  
Justice System ◽  
Planning Process ◽  
Short Circuit ◽  
Police Department ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Daily Work ◽  
External Stakeholders

Purpose The diffusion of innovations paradigm suggests that stakeholders’ acceptance of a police innovation shapes how it spreads and impacts the larger criminal justice system. A lack of support by external stakeholders for police body-worn cameras (BWCs) can short-circuit their intended benefits. The purpose of this paper is to examine the perceptions of BWCs among non-police stakeholders who are impacted by the technology as well as how BWCs influence their daily work processes. Design/methodology/approach The authors conducted interviews and focus groups (n=41) in two US cities where the police department implemented BWCs. The interviewees range from courtroom actors (e.g. judges, prosecutors) to those who work with police in the field (e.g. fire and mental health), city leaders, civilian oversight members, and victim advocates. Findings External stakeholders are highly supportive of the new technology. Within the diffusion of innovations framework, this support suggests that the adoption of BWCs will continue. However, the authors also found the decision to implement BWCs carries unique consequences for external stakeholders, implying that a comprehensive planning process that takes into account the views of all stakeholders is critical. Originality/value Despite the recent diffusion of BWCs in policing, this is the first study to examine the perceptions of external stakeholders. More broadly, few criminologists have applied the diffusion of innovations framework to understand how technologies and other changes emerge and take hold in the criminal justice system. This study sheds light on the spread of BWCs within this framework and offers insights on their continued impact and consequences.

scholarly journals A literature review about the prevalence and identification of people with an intellectual disability within court Liaison and Diversion services

2020 ◽  
Vol 11 (3) ◽  
pp. 159-169
Author(s):  
Karina Marshall-Tate ◽  
Eddie Chaplin ◽  
Jane McCarthy ◽  
Annmarie Grealish
Keyword(s):  
Intellectual Disability ◽  
Criminal Justice ◽  
Literature Review ◽  
Evidence Base ◽  
Systematic Review Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Disposal Options ◽  
Criminal Justice Professionals ◽  
Court Liaison ◽  
Research Studies

Purpose Expert consensus is that people with an intellectual disability are over represented across the criminal justice setting (CJS). Primary research studies have been conducted in police stations and prisons, but little is known about the prevalence of this population in the court setting. The purpose of this paper is to conduct a literature review to find out more about the prevalence of defendants with an intellectual disability in court. Design/methodology/approach A literature review was conducted using standard systematic review methodology (Julian et al., 2011) and the PRISMA reporting guidelines (Moher et al., 2009). Findings Two papers met the inclusion criteria and were critically appraised. The papers reported prevalence findings ranging from 10%–20%. Research limitations/implications Differences in study design, sampling, recruitment and diagnostic criteria affect the ability to make comparisons or synthesise findings. Practical implications It is important that future primary and secondary research studies standardise operational terms to enable true comparison between studies, systematic reviews and evidence syntheses. Social implications Defendants with an intellectual disability need to be identified to enable criminal justice professionals to make reasonable adjustments to proceedings and consider diversion and alternative disposal options. This will likely improve outcomes for this population and reduce recidivism. Originality/value This literature review contributes to the growing evidence base about meeting the criminal justice needs of people with a learning disability and recognition of the increased prevalence across the CJS and specifically within the court setting.

scholarly journals What do we know about girls in the care and criminal justice systems?

2017 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. 134-143 ◽  
Author(s):  
Claire Fitzpatrick
Keyword(s):  
Criminal Justice ◽  
Justice System ◽  
Review Of The Literature ◽  
Policy And Practice ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Looked After Children ◽  
Criminal Justice Systems ◽  
The Law ◽  
Future Policy ◽  
And Control

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to highlight the neglect of girls in care who come into conflict with the law, arguing that a gender-neutral approach in this area risks further marginalising an already vulnerable population. Design/methodology/approach A critical review of the literature and current policy climate is undertaken to explore what is known about the experiences of females in the justice system, as well as knowledge gaps. Findings Evidence on the prevalence and nature of offending by girls in care is limited. However, as looked after children, girls may be more likely to have their own behaviour unnecessarily criminalised. Whilst females and males share some prior experiences of victimisation and trauma, girls also have distinct needs and may be assessed and managed by state care and control systems in very different ways. Research limitations/implications The paper is not based on primary research and does not present a systematic review of the literature. Practical implications The need to listen to girls and young women, and a far greater recognition of backgrounds of trauma must underpin future policy and practice. Diversion from the formal criminal justice system wherever possible is also a key goal to aspire to. Originality/value This paper focuses on the specific experiences of females. It calls for a gender-sensitive, trauma-informed approach to working with girls and women from the care system who come into conflict with the law, and questions the value of criminalising those whom the state previously deemed to be in need of welfare and support.

Case management helps prevent criminal justice recidivism for people with serious mental illness

2017 ◽  
Vol 13 (3/4) ◽  
pp. 168-172 ◽  
Author(s):  
Heather Leutwyler ◽  
Erin Hubbard ◽  
Elaine Zahnd
Keyword(s):  
Mental Illness ◽  
Criminal Justice ◽  
Case Management ◽  
Criminal Justice System ◽  
Serious Mental Illness ◽  
Justice System ◽  
Secondary Analysis ◽  
Formerly Incarcerated ◽  
Community Reentry ◽  
Content Type

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to discuss how case management can decrease recidivism for people with serious mental illness (SMI) because people with SMI are at high risk for incarceration and recidivism. Design/methodology/approach Examples of successful case management models for formerly incarcerated individuals with SMI found through a secondary analysis of qualitative data and an analysis of the literature are presented. Findings Currently, no international, national, or statewide guidelines exist to ensure that formerly incarcerated individuals with SMI receive case management upon community reentry despite evidence that such services can prevent further criminal justice involvement. Recommendations include establishment of and evaluation of best practices for case management. In addition, the authors recommend additional funding for case management with the goal of greatly increasing the number of individuals with SMI leaving the criminal justice system in their ability to access adequate case management. Originality/value Providing effective case management tailored to the needs of formerly incarcerated people with SMI improves their quality of life and reduces their involvement in the criminal justice system with clear positive outcomes for public safety and public health.

Gang wars risk wider violence in Brazil

2016 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Criminal Justice ◽  
Federal Government ◽  
Justice System ◽  
Large Scale ◽  
Prison Population ◽  
Violence Risk ◽  
Recent Past ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Armed Violence ◽  
Criminal Groups

Subject Gang wars and violence risk. Significance Brazil's two largest criminal groups appear to have entered an uneasy truce, after a 'declaration of war' in September that broke a 23-year alliance. The breakdown in relations has gradually escalated into violence inside Brazil's prisons, where leaders of organised criminal factions still coordinate their transnational empires, and risks increased urban armed violence. Impacts The gang war has added urgency to the nationwide security plan being drafted by the federal government. Some changes in the criminal justice system are expected in order to reduce the prison population. Both groups have shown appetite, in the recent past, for large-scale and highly disruptive attacks, and spill-over is likely.

scholarly journals A rapid systematic review of what we know about alcohol use disorders and brief interventions in the criminal justice system

2016 ◽  
Vol 12 (1) ◽  
pp. 57-70 ◽  
Author(s):  
Dorothy Newbury-Birch ◽  
Ruth McGovern ◽  
Jennifer Birch ◽  
Gillian O'Neill ◽  
Hannah Kaner ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Systematic Review ◽  
Criminal Justice ◽  
Alcohol Use ◽  
Young People ◽  
Criminal Justice System ◽  
Justice System ◽  
Alcohol Use Disorders ◽  
Brief Interventions ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Uk

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to review the evidence of alcohol use disorders within the different stages of the criminal justice system in the UK. Furthermore it reviewed the worldwide evidence of alcohol brief interventions in the various stages of the criminal justice system. Design/methodology/approach – A rapid systematic review of publications was conducted from the year 2000 to 2014 regarding the prevalence of alcohol use disorders in the various stages of the criminal justice system. The second part of the work was a rapid review of effectiveness studies of interventions for alcohol brief interventions. Studies were included if they had a comparison group. Worldwide evidence was included that consisted of up to three hours of face-to-face brief intervention either in one session or numerous sessions. Findings – This review found that 64-88 per cent of adults in the police custody setting; 95 per cent in the magistrate court setting; 53-69 per cent in the probation setting and 5,913-863 per cent in the prison system and 64 per cent of young people in the criminal justice system in the UK scored positive for an alcohol use disorder. There is very little evidence of effectiveness of brief interventions in the various stages of the criminal justice system mainly due to the lack of follow-up data. Social implications – Brief alcohol interventions have a large and robust evidence base for reducing alcohol use in risky drinkers, particularly in primary care settings. However, there is little evidence of effect upon drinking levels in criminal justice settings. Whilst the approach shows promise with some effects being shown on alcohol-related harm as well as with young people in the USA, more robust research is needed to ascertain effectiveness of alcohol brief interventions in this setting. Originality/value – This paper provides evidence of alcohol use disorders in the different stages of the criminal justice system in the UK using a validated tool as well as reviewing the worldwide evidence for short ( < three hours) alcohol brief intervention in this setting.

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