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    May 24, 2013

    Background

    In an effort to expand its information sharing capabilities, the Maine State Police (MSP) sought assistance in implementing an incident reporting process that all law enforcement agencies throughout the state could use. Concurrently, the Cumberland County (Portland) District Attorney and the Maine District Attorneys Technical Services (MEDATS) office sought a technical solution that would allow the county’s law enforcement agencies to electronically refer cases to the district attorney. Through the Maine Justice Information Sharing Architecture Steering Committee (MJISA), Maine justice agencies continually collaborate and coordinate information sharing efforts and technology projects. Through this committee, MSP and MEDATS recognized the commonalities of the two projects and agreed to develop a common information sharing infrastructure to complete both initiatives. To achieve its justice information sharing goals, MSP relied upon technical assistance provided by SEARCH, The National Consortium for Justice Information Sharing and Statistics. SEARCH is a national, nonprofit membership organization created by and for the states that seeks to identify and solve the information management and sharing challenges of state, local, and tribal agencies. SEARCH’s Information Sharing Programs help justice and public safety practitioners and organizations at all levels of government to improve their use of technology, information sharing capabilities, and voice and data interoperability in mission-critical projects and initiatives.

    Summary of the Technical Assistance

    Under the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) Justice Information Sharing Initiative, MSP received grant funding to support the development of an incident reporting process that all law enforcement agencies throughout the State of Maine could adopt. The purpose of the grant was to promote the use of the Global Reference Architecture (GRA) and demonstrate the benefits of using this information exchange solution. The GRA is designed to cut 80 percent of implementation time and costs for state and local justice agencies through reuse of established practices in IT architecture and design. In order to implement this solution, MSP worked with SEARCH. SEARCH helped the MSP to define the requirements for the information exchanges and to develop the GRA information sharing components. MSP staff wrote the program to extract data from their Records Management System (RMS). Once the data was passed to Maine’s information sharing environment, SEARCH transformed the data into a National Information Exchange Model (NIEM)-conformant exchange. Once NIEM-conformant, the data could be routed to the appropriate destination, whether it be the FBI’s National Data Exchange System (N-DEx), the local district attorney, or both. For the data routed to N-Dex, SEARCH transformed the data to meet N-DEx requirements and called the N-DEx service hosted by the FBI over the Internet. In collaboration with the Maine District Attorneys, SEARCH worked with MEDATS to transform and deliver data into the format they required. MEDATS also developed the capability to extract data from three other RMSs used by multiple law enforcement agencies in Cumberland County (Portland); SEARCH then implemented the connection to Maine’s GRA information sharing environment. This enabled the law enforcement agencies and District Attorney’s Office in Cumberland County to take advantage of and leverage the same information sharing infrastructure. Since MSP and MEDATS agreed to collaborate and use the common MJISA infrastructure to complete both of their initiatives, Maine law enforcement agencies now have the option to submit incident records to N-DEx, refer cases to their local district attorney, or both using the same electronic exchange and infrastructure. Each agency maintains responsibility for determining what data is shared, when, and with whom. This new process results in significant benefits to both district attorneys and law enforcement agencies across the state. For law enforcement, the new system means these agencies can now view incident reports from other agencies that submit incident data to N-DEx. For the district attorneys, this means that the amount of time required to enter initial case information is dramatically reduced and the likelihood of making data entry errors significantly decreases. In a time when greater emphasis is placed on the role of data in criminal justice, this engagement demonstrates the role that technical assistance — like that provided by SEARCH — can play in developing and expanding information sharing capabilities. The MSP and SEARCH’s use of established promising practices and standards in IT architecture and design helped reduce implementation time and costs, enhance data consistency, and maximize the number of agencies that are able to leverage incident reporting data. For more information regarding SEARCH or the justice information sharing work in Maine, please click on the link below. To submit the work of your organization or jurisdiction for consideration to be featured in a future TTA Spotlight, please email BJANTTAC@ojp.usdoj.gov. National Association for Justice Information Sharing Systems Newsletter: Maine Justice Agencies Implement N-DEx and eReferral Data Exchanges

    May 13, 2013

    By: Eva Bertone McGann, BJA NTTAC On March 18, 1963, the U.S. Supreme Court rendered a landmark decision that constituted a critical step forward in our nation’s relentless pursuit of equality and justice for all. The decision made in the case of Gideon v. Wainwright unanimously established the right to counsel for those who could not afford to hire an attorney. Fifty years later, professionals and leaders from across the criminal justice community honored this historical ruling by participating in events such as American University’s 50th Anniversary Symposium or the Department of Justice (DOJ) 50th Anniversary Celebration. Both of these events served as a testament and a reminder that, while much progress has been achieved since this revolutionary decision, the structure and mechanisms of our legal system still remain a work in progress. Commemorating the 50th anniversary of this case, American University's School of Public Affairs Justice Programs Office convened a day-long symposium, “Answering Gideon’s Call Outside the Courtroom: Policy Reform Strategies to Protect the Sixth Amendment Right to Counsel Across America.” Representatives from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) National Training and Technical Assistance Center (NTTAC) team had the fortune of participating in this event with other federal and state leaders, policymakers, and jurists. During the symposium, the BJA NTTAC representatives and other attendees had the rare opportunity to hear firsthand the experience that Abe Krash, the partner from Arnold and Porter pictured below, had as the lead attorney preparing the brief in the case of Gideon v. Wainwright. Krash highlighted the specific challenges he confronted 50 years ago to set the foundation for the symposium’s thought leaders as they embarked upon problem-solving and developing an initial framework for an integrated policy reform agenda to make the right to counsel a reality. In his address during the DOJ 50th Anniversary Celebration of Gideon v. Wainwright, Attorney General Eric Holder also provided a reminder of the work that still remains to ultimately achieve the vision established 50 years ago. As he remarked, the observance served as “an important moment not merely to reflect on our past, but to plan for the future – and recommit ourselves to the ideals laid out in Justice Hugo Black’s historic opinion.” He went on to call attention to the shared responsibilities of all professionals from across the nation’s legal community to continue to uphold the legacy established by Gideon v. Wainwright, safeguard due process, and preserve the basic rights of every citizen. Attorney General Holder reaffirmed the DOJ’s commitment to advancing access to quality representation through the provision of assistance and support for cutting-edge research, highlighting some promising grant programs. For example, last year, BJA awarded $1.2 million in funding to four states – each of which has partnered with a research organization to track outcomes – through a grant program called “Answering Gideon’s Call.” Through a second “Answering Gideon’s Call” initiative, BJA will soon build upon this first initiative and award over $700,000 to a non-profit organization and its partners to support training and technical assistance (TTA) based on the American Bar Association's Ten Principles of a Public Defense Delivery System. Further, BJA NTTAC will commit a total of $90,000 for technical assistance to help several states meet their constitutional obligations to provide proficient representation for the poor. Both of these events bring to light the dedication of the criminal justice community to honor the legacy of Gideon and realize equal justice for all. In a time of unprecedented challenges, professionals from across the justice system are continuously being asked to achieve greater impact with fewer resources. It is a coordinated, collaborative effort, like that demonstrated at the day-long Gideon Symposium, that is necessary to identify opportunities to overcome these challenges and maximize impact. Even during times of tighter fiscal year budgets, one thing remains certain – the Justice Department and criminal justice practitioners must remain committed to the cause of Gideon because, as Attorney General Holder states, “today, more than ever before – prosecutors and defenders must come together to make the most of limited resources.” For more information regarding the events commemorating Gideon v. Wainwright or to read the full transcript of Attorney General Holder’s remarks, please click on the links below. To submit the work of your organization or jurisdiction for consideration to be featured in a future TTA Today blog post, please email BJANTTAC@ojp.usdoj.gov. Attorney General Eric Holder Speaks at the Justice Department's 50th Anniversary Celebration of the U.S. Supreme Court Decision in Gideon v. Wainwright American University 50th Anniversary of Gideon v. Wainwright Symposium

    May 06, 2013

    The Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is committed to supporting the efforts of probation and parole agencies across the nation to leverage contemporary research to implement promising supervision policies and practices that are evidence-based, data-driven, and smart on crime. Although it currently funds several technical assistance (TA) initiatives for community corrections, BJA recognizes there is a need for additional resources that can be tailored to address the specific challenges faced by community corrections at the state, local, and tribal levels. BJA’s National Training and Technical Assistance Center (NTTAC) has, therefore, committed a modest amount of resources to support TA engagements focused on enhancing the work of community corrections agencies on the following key issues:

    • Leveraging the key lessons learned in BJA’s Smart Probation Initiative to enhance the overall effectiveness and efficiency of offender supervision strategies.
    • Enhancing the use of empirically validated offender assessment tools to guide supervision and decisionmaking.
    • Evaluating caseload allocations and implementing strategies to use limited supervision resources most efficiently and effectively, (e.g., targeting high and medium risk offenders for smaller caseloads, more intensive supervision and programming).
    • Integrating effective treatment and programming with supervision, and ensuring quality of services delivered.
    • Developing and implementing a comprehensive system of data-driven graduated sanctions designed to respond to violations and reduce the likelihood of recidivism.
    • Expanding collaboration and strategic partnerships between probation and parole agencies and local law enforcement to enhance offender management efforts.

    Those community corrections agencies interested in pursuing TA on any of these issues are encouraged to complete a brief online application at: /working-with-nttac/requestors/tta-request/form. Questions about the assistance available can be directed to BJA NTTAC at 1-833-872-5174 or to BJA Senior Policy Advisor Dr. Gary Dennis at gary.dennis@usdoj.gov or 202-305-9059.

    Implementation Science and the Importance of Fidelity: Replicating Evidence-Based Practices

    Event Type: 
    Training Delivery - Webinar
    Wednesday May 01, 2013 - 07:00pm to 08:00pm EDT
    Event Description: 

    Over the last 15 years, criminal justice decision makers, state legislatures, and the federal government have increasingly pushed for the adoption of researched-based, data-driven, or evidence-based programming. This focus has been accompanied by the development of menus of promising and evidence-based programming, including, but not limited to, www.crimesolutions.gov and www.blueprintsprograms.com. While improving access to evidence-based strategies is vital, it is also imperative to understand the importance of fidelity and other factors when seeking to replicate a program or practice. Poor implementation of a program model can not only diminish the desired outcomes, but if done poorly, can tarnish the reputation of a given program or treatment modality. On May 1, join the National Criminal Justice Association (NCJA) for the Implementation Science and the Importance of Fidelity webinar, which will focus on what science tells us about effective implementation of evidence-based programs and practices and how this can impact desired outcomes. As an applied example, this webinar will describe data and lessons learned from a 15-year project of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency to scale-up a menu of evidence-based programs and treatment modalities. Speakers for this webinar are Brian Bumbarger, founding director of the Evidence-based Prevention and Intervention Support Center (EPISCenter) at Penn State University, and Roger Przybylski, founder of the RKC Group. For more information or to register for this webinar, click on the link below.

    Organizer Information
    Event Organization: 
    The National Criminal Justice Association
    February 25, 2013

    By: Kelly Sullivan, BJA NTTAC Communications Specialist Often when we think of those who risk their lives and wellbeing to protect our safety, it is soldiers, police officers, or firefighters who jump readily to our minds. Albeit brave and deserving of our respect, these are not the only courageous souls who put themselves at risk to protect the public. Corrections officers are the “silent guardians” who have one of the most psychologically, emotionally, and physically taxing jobs out there, all the while receiving little appreciation for their dedication. Studies have revealed that corrections officers suffer from higher rates of substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, divorce, and suicide than other public safety professionals. As Fred Wilson from the National Sheriffs' Association (NSA) explains, “prisoners come and go from our jails, but many of our full-time corrections people spend their whole lives behind the walls at a great personal cost.” The wellness of these corrections officers was brought to light after a series of high-profile incidents impelled law enforcement and health officials to address these concerns head-on. In the past year and a half, the Middlesex County Sheriff's Office in Massachusetts was hit especially hard by three sudden officer deaths, including two suicides. These deaths provoked Middlesex County Sheriff Peter Koutoujian to take action, calling on law enforcement and health officials from across the country to convene to discuss the issues facing corrections officers. As Sheriff Koutoujian explained, “our country’s 450,000 corrections officers spend the vast majority of their time outside the view of the general public and inside the walls of our jails, prisons, and houses of corrections standing guard over both convicts and pre-trial detainees. As corrections professionals, we have a duty and a responsibility to take care of those placed in our custody, but we also have a moral obligation to take care of one another.” On December 17, 2012, NSA and the Middlesex County Sheriff's Office, with financial support from the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) National Training and Technical Assistance Center (NTTAC), partnered to host the Conference on Correction Officer Wellness – the first national conference gathering authorities to deal with the rising concerns for officer wellness. The conference brought together 300 corrections officials, researchers, and medical professionals to engage in dialogue and share best practices on how to address workplace challenges and promote the physical and emotional welfare of corrections employees. The hope is that the success experienced at the conference will evoke public attention and respect for corrections officers, while also prompting additional research on officer wellness needs. The conference revealed the need for a newfound focus on ensuring that corrections officers have a balanced lifestyle, strong family support, and community engagement to help them cope with the stress of the job. Even those with strong support systems, however, can suffer from mental and physical issues associated with the job. Thus, it is critical to communicate to officials that there are resources available to help them combat these issues in order to prevent further devastating incidences. As Caterina Spinaris, Psychologist and Founder of Desert Waters Congressional Outreach put it, “these are the forgotten people of the criminal justice system. These are the warriors behind the walls. There are way too many casualties.” With the 2012 Conference on Correction Officer Wellness, NSA and the Middlesex County Sheriff’s Office took the first step to prevent future casualties and finally give a voice to these selfless silent guardians. To learn more about the 2012 Conference on Correction Officer Wellness, read the press coverage below.

    February 22, 2013

    Registration for the next Center for Evidence-Based Crime Policy (CEBCP) – Scottish Institute for Policing Research (SIPR) Joint Symposium and Congressional Briefing on evidence-based policing is now open. The symposium, which will take place April 8-9, 2013 in Arlington, Va., will focus on translating police research into practice. A tentative agenda – including topics such as Using Evidence in Practice, Establishing Community Partnerships in Policing, and Improving on research and Practice for Police Legitimacy - can be found here. For more information, please follow the link below:

    2013 CEBCP-SIPR Joint Symposium and Congressional Briefing Registration
    February 13, 2013

    The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is seeking applications for the Smart Policing Initiative. This program furthers the Department of Justice's mission by assisting state and local jurisdictions in reducing crime and improving the functioning of the criminal justice system. Applicants must register with Grants.gov prior to submitting a concept paper. All concept papers must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. EST on February 14, 2013. For more information, view the grant solicitation below:

    Smart Policing Initiative FY 2013 Competitive Grant Announcement

    BCJI Webinar

    Event Type: 
    Training Delivery - Webinar
    Thursday Jan 31, 2013 - 08:15pm to 10:15pm EST
    Event Description: 

    BJA is pleased to announce the release of the FY 2013 solicitation for the Byrne Criminal Justice Innovation (BCJI) program. BCJI is data-driven approach that is a part of the Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative (NRI) – helping local and tribal communities develop place-based, community-oriented strategies to change neighborhoods of distress into neighborhoods of opportunity. The BCJI webinar will provide applicants with a brief overview of NRI and its centerpiece revitalization grant programs, the BCJI program model, information about requirements for an application’s budget, and BCJI’s training and technical assistance component.

    Event Cost Information
    AmountDescription
    $0.00
    Registration Required
    Space Available: 
    Unlimited
    Organizer Information
    Event Organization: 
    Bureau of Justice Assistance
    January 24, 2013

    BJA is pleased to announce the release of the FY 2013 solicitation for the Byrne Criminal Justice Innovation (BCJI) program. BCJI is data-driven approach that is a part of the Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative (NRI) – helping local and tribal communities develop place-based, community-oriented strategies to change neighborhoods of distress into neighborhoods of opportunity. The BCJI webinar will provide applicants with a brief overview of NRI and its centerpiece revitalization grant programs, the BCJI program model, information about requirements for an application’s budget, and BCJI’s training and technical assistance component. Details for the webinar can be found below:

    • Date: Thursday, January 31, 2013
    • Time: 3:15 – 5:15 p.m. EST
    • For Event Details Click Here

    This event is now closed. A recording has been posted here: Link to Webinar

    October 27, 2012

    BJA NTTAC is pleased to announce the official launch of its new, enhanced website. As we refocused and expanded our training and technical assistance (TTA) services, we resolved to incorporate the latest technology tools to enhance our ability to meet the needs of both requestors and providers of TTA. We hope that the updated information and new tools provided will aid your effort to enhance the nation’s state, local, and tribal criminal justice systems. We are dedicated to continuing the expansion of NTTAC in order to facilitate the provision of consistent, effective TTA services that achieve meaningful criminal justice outcomes. We appreciate your input and hope that you will take our BJA NTTAC Contact Page to let us know how we can continue to improve our website to better meet the needs of your organization.

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