ABSTRACT
Most advancements in managing individuals in the criminal justice system begin with a discussion of the need for the adoption of a standardized risk and need assessment (RNA) tool. Standardized, valid tools are research-based in that they are built using statistical methods to predict desired (or undesired) outcomes. RNA tools are generally recommended at all decision points along the criminal justice system-from booking to pretrial release to sentencing to release from prison or jail to services. Standardized RNA tools, in theory, offer a science-based approach to regulate decision-making to avoid or minimize biases, decrease unnecessary discretion, improve proper use of resources, and/or increase fairness. As noted above in the various headlines of recent policy pieces, RNA tools are considered the panacea to better practice. Great promises are tied to the use of RNA tools, primarily better performance of the justice system at the system level to deliver
fairness and justice, at the program level to assign individuals to appropriate controls and programs, and at the individual level to improve outcomes. The rapid growth and expansion in risk assessment tools-in various domains of the justice system-illustrates a growing appreciation for integrating science into practice in order to improve operational practices.
