Hipp, J. R., Jannetta, J., Shah, R., & Turner, S. (2009).
Health & Place, 15, 649–658.

This article was produced by researchers with the Center for Evidence-Based Corrections using data provided by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). Researchers analyzed data from a sample of 57,107 parolees released from California prisons in either 2005 or 2006, examining the relative physical closeness to government and non-profit providers of general health services, mental health services, and substance use services to parolees based onparolees’ demographic (gender, race/ethnicity, and age) and prior offending characteristics (prior violent and property offenses and days served in a CDCR institution). The primary outcome measure was the number of organizations offering a health services within two miles of the parolees’ homes. Researchers examined demand for providers and found that providers that were geographically close to African–American and Latino parolees have large potential demand, as do providers geographically close to long-term prisoners and sex offenders. These results could pointto inequity in access to services for minority parolees and parolees with greater needs. The results also point to possible differences in access based on rural, suburban, or urban location.

Link: http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1353829208001330

Joan Petersilia, Ph.D.
Journal of Experimental Criminology
Volume 4, Number 4/December, 2008
Pages 335-356

Abstract: Criminologists bemoan their lack of influence on U.S. crime policy, believing that the justice system would be improved if their research findings were more central in decision making. I had an opportunity to test that notion as I participated in California’s historic attempt to reform its prisons over the past 4 years. I became an embedded criminologist, where I was able to observe and contribute to the inner workings of state government. This article reports on my accomplishments with respect to fostering research activities and shifting the department’s focus towards prisoner reintegration. It discusses some of the lessons I learned, including the personal toll that such work entails, the importance of the timing of policy initiatives, and the power of rigorous methodology and clear communication. I conclude by recommending that other policy-oriented criminologists seek out similar experiences, as I believe our academic skills are uniquely suited and ultimately necessary to create a justice system that does less harm.

Influencing public policy: an embedded criminologist reflects on California prison reform