NCJ Number
99464
Date Published
1986
Length
35 pages
Annotation
This report describes prosecutorial policies and procedures that (according to 18 prosecutors with reputations for alleviating jail crowding) have helped reduce jail crowding and generally improved case processing efficiency and the administration of justice.
Abstract
The prosecutors from various States were surveyed by phone or mail. Their responses indicate that prosecutorial case and warrant screening procedures help ensure that cases are properly prepared and investigated before they enter the criminal justice system, thus reducing the probability of pretrial detention for persons not likely to be convicted. Prosecutorial intake screening can also enhance the selection of arrestees for pretrial diversion and release on bail. At the trial preparation stage, prosecutors' use of plea bargaining guidelines can facilitate case disposition and reduction in pretrial detention periods, and the imposition of time limits for accepting pleas can contribute to a substantial reduction in trial caseloads. Vertical case managements speed adjudication and consequently reduces jail populations. Charge consolidation techniques and accelerated case calendars are key measures that speed case processing. At the sentencing stage, prosecutorial support for incarceration alternatives can help reduce jail populations. 22 references.