Studying Implementation of Pretrial Improvements

Why It Matters

Studying implementation of the PSA and other pretrial improvements can help people in the Research-Action Sites view their jurisdiction’s experiences through a broader lens. They can learn from other sites and gain ideas for approaching challenges.

Jurisdictions considering implementing the PSA or other pretrial improvements can use these research findings to help identify effective pretrial improvement processes that contribute to more just and equitable pretrial justice systems.

Studying implementation will help researchers think about future studies. Important questions include how implementing the PSA affects decisions about releasing people from jail during the pretrial period and whether different implementation approaches can be more helpful in different jurisdictions.  

For questions about PSA implementation, contact Jim Trudeau.

Research Methods     

RTI learns about PSA implementation and other pretrial improvement processes by examining system maps, reports, meeting notes, and other documents, including:

• Logic models: Graphics showing the relationships between the Research-Action Sites’ planned activities, direct outputs or results of activities, and expected outcomes and long-term impacts     
• Implementation Assessments: Semiannual evaluations completed by Research-Action Site policy team members of their progress improving pretrial systems
• PSA Fidelity Guide: Structured guidance to prepare for and implement the PSA and to assess fidelity of implementation 

Studying these documents helps RTI understand how TA providers and stakeholders in Research-Action Sites collaborate and what they are doing to implement pretrial improvements. RTI is also analyzing how closely policymakers follow their original plans when implementing the PSA and, if changes are made, why. These efforts are supplemented by the research activities to understand local context and to provide additional insight into implementation. All of this information will help researchers identify what worked well, how challenges were overcome, and what other lessons were learned.

Research

Validation and Predictive Bias Testing of the Public Safety Assessment for Fulton County, Georgia (PDF)
January 2023

Validation and Predictive Bias Testing of the Public Safety Assessment for Pierce County, Washington (PDF)
January 2023

Validation and Predictive Bias Testing of the Public Safety Assessment for Thurston County, Washington (PDF)
January 2023