Implementing a Geographic Community-Based Prosecution Model in Philadelphia

• NCJ Number: 244457
• Author(s): R. Seth Williams; Will Stewart
• Date Published: December 2013
• Length: 17 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2011-DP-BX-K051
• Agencies: BJA-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Report (Grant Sponsored); Program Description (Model)

Annotation

This study examined a pilot geographic prosecution model in Philadelphia.

Abstract

Results show that this pilot program, which began in two of the most violent police districts in the city, has been benefitted by the regional knowledge of the prosecutors assigned to these zones. Zone courts went into effect in Philadelphia in November 2010. The transition was remarkably smooth, and only small adjustments were needed to fine tune the process. All of the stakeholders, including ADAs, public defenders, judges, police officers, and court staff quickly acclimated to the new system. By implementing other strategies which create more efficiency or effectiveness within the office and criminal justice system, more prosecutorial resources were able to be diverted to violent crime and community-based prosecution efforts. This implemented geographic community-based prosecution, having transformed the workings of Philadelphia's courts and prosecutor's office, remains the core foundation of the system. Zone courts were essential to maximizing the benefits of the innovative programs that were implemented over the past few years, and future reforms will further build upon zone courts. Graphs and charts