The state has created a Council on Community Justice to further improve the effectiveness and fairness of New York’s criminal justice system. According to the Governor’s Office, the Council will review existing State policies and programs and propose new measures to strengthen the State’s efforts to advance equity, reduce disparities, and decrease recidivism to make communities safer and stronger. The council includes local and state criminal justice practitioners, professionals from community-based organizations, and leaders in higher education.
Governor Kathy Hochul also issued a proclamation designating July 16 through 22 as Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week in New York State to recognize the important work done by those professionals. (see below)
The Council met in New York City for the first time Wednesday and is expected to meet on a quarterly basis. Its members will work closely with the state Division of Criminal Justice Services, state Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, and state Commission of Correction, among other agencies. The Council will assess the state’s work in prevention, diversion, corrections, and re-entry, and propose ways to modernize policies, programs and initiatives so they focus on rehabilitation and treatment, rather than incarceration, and better assist individuals released from prison so they can lead productive, crime-free lives. According to the Governor, the goal of the Council is to further inform the state’s work to keep New Yorkers safe and deliver an equitable justice system that works for all, particularly communities that have been historically and disproportionately harmed.
“This advisory council will help identify issues within our criminal justice system and recommend solutions with the goal of ensuring that programs and services are evidence-based, effective and provide justice-involved individuals with the help they need to thrive,” Governor Hochul said. “I commend these professionals for stepping up to serve their community and look forward to working with them.”
“This is the work of making our communities stronger, fairer, and safer,” said Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado. “This is the work of making our communities whole. I am honored to chair this council, as we work to develop strategies, policies, and practices that will set our justice system on the right path for generations to come.”
