Criminal Justice Reform and Racial Disparities

Abstract

Purpose: The main objective of this study was to explore the relationship between criminal justice reform and racial disparities.

Methodology: The study adopted a desktop research methodology. Desk research refers to secondary data or that which can be collected without fieldwork. Desk research is basically involved in collecting data from existing resources hence it is often considered a low cost technique as compared to field research, as the main cost is involved in executive’s time, telephone charges and directories. Thus, the study relied on already published studies, reports and statistics. This secondary data was easily accessed through the online journals and library.

Findings: The findings revealed that there exists a contextual and methodological gap relating to criminal justice reform and racial disparities. Preliminary empirical review revealed that while certain policies and initiatives have shown promise in reducing disparities, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The research underscores the importance of a holistic approach that considers the interplay of various factors, including policing practices, sentencing policies, economic opportunities, and community engagement. It is evident that meaningful change will require a coordinated effort from policymakers, law enforcement agencies, communities, and advocates.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The Critical Race theory, Social Disorganization and Strain theory may be used to anchor future studies on criminal justice reforms. The study made the following recommendations: comprehensive criminal justice reforms, implicit bias training and accountability measures, community policing and engagement, diversion programs and alternatives to incarceration and data-driven decision making and research.