Center for Justice Research and Innovation

The Center for Justice Research and Innovation transforms research into real-world programs and strategies for hundreds of justice system agencies across the country. We specialize in research, training, technical assistance, critical incident reviews, and operational, technological and management assessments and solutions.

Our Mission

To work with justice-related and community-based agencies and organizations on the assessment, implementation, evaluation and sustainment of organizational and system-wide improvements in the administration of justice. To develop and deliver high-quality assessments, evaluations, research, training and technical assistance, drawing on our diverse staff and national network of subject matter experts and collaborating with experts in related fields.

Our Values

Our values reflect who we are and our commitment, and guide us in accomplishing our mission.

Areas of Practice

Research, Analysis and Evaluation

CNA conducts evaluative and action-oriented research grounded in operational realities. Our research informs the criminal justice field about promising practices and opportunities for improvement.

Training and Technical Assistance

CNA works directly with law enforcement and other justice agencies to develop and deliver customized, evidence-based training and technical assistance built on evidence-based solutions, to improve performance and maximize impact.

Organizational Reform and Innovation in Policing

CNA has decades of experience in data-driven, collaborative assessments of law enforcement policies and practices, promoting justice and equity while improving trust, efficiency and accountability.

Racial Bias Assessment of the North Charleston, SC, Police Department

CNA’s comprehensive assessment of North Charleston, SC, Police Department included an examination of law enforcement operations, community-oriented policing practices, complaints, training, oversight, accountability, recruitment, hiring, and promotions.

A COVID-19 Disease Spread Model

Simulation Applications for Forecasting Effective Responses in Corrections (SAFER-C™)

The SAFER-C™ model can help correctional leaders forecast outcomes and manage their facilities while addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. This practical planning tool helps corrections leaders make critical decisions to prevent disease spread and protect both inmates and staff.

Project on American Justice

We gathered leading experts in policing, prosecution and corrections to form the Project on American Justice (PAJ). The group shares insight and provides solutions on emerging issues in the criminal justice system.

Officer Safety and Wellness

Using data-driven research and analysis, we work with law enforcement agencies to identify the characteristics associated with positive safety and wellness outcomes, and provides targeted technical assistance designed to improve officer readiness.

Recent Reports

Stationary Cameras vs. Body-Worn Cameras in a Local Jail

Work and Life Stressors of Law Enforcement Personnel

Law Enforcement Trainee Health and Wellness Bulletin

WELLNESS PEER LISTENING SESSION: KEY TAKEAWAYS

Rethinking Police Recruitment and Retention in the U.S.

COMMUNITY POLICING EVALUATION OF THE CITY OF TULSA OKLAHOMA

Police Staffing and Operations Assessment for Minneapolis

21st Century Policing Assessment San Jose PD

North Charleston SC Police Department Racial Bias Assessment

Law Enforcement Pandemic Response Field Guide

The Use of Predictive Analytics in Policing Bulletin (PDF)

Organizational Transformation in Policing (PDF)

Methuen Police Department Performance Audit

Law Enforcement Officer Safety Risks and Recommendations Bulletin (PDF)

Impact on Field Training Incentives (PDF)

The Use of Predictive Analytics in Policing

Racial Bias Audit of the Charleston, South Carolina, Police Department (PDF)

Racial Injustice and Police Community Relations

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Contacts

James R. “Chip” Coldren, Jr., Co-Director

coldrej@cna.org

Vivian Elliott, Co-Director

elliottv@cna.org