In Short:

Findings demonstrate that a prosecutor-led gun diversion program can address the racially disparate punishment of illegal gun possession and can be implemented without detrimental effects on public safety.

Abstract

Objective

To examine the effects of a novel prosecutor-led gun diversion program (PLGDP) on criminal recidivism outcomes, with a focus on charges that impact public safety.

Methods

We employed a quasi-experimental design comparing 76 participants from a PLGDP in Minneapolis, MN with 93 individuals from a comparison group. Participants joined the program between 2017 and 2019, and logistic regression analyses focused on the two-year period following the illegal gun possession offense. Outcomes included arrest and conviction for any criminal offense and offenses involving a weapon or violence.

Results

PLGDP participants as a whole demonstrated lower odds of a conviction in the two-year follow period compared to individuals in the comparison group. Program graduates had significantly lower odds of a violent or weapons-related offense compared to those in the comparison group, while terminated program participants demonstrated higher odds of charges and convictions.

Conclusions

Findings demonstrate that a PLGDP can address the racially disparate punishment of illegal gun possession and can be implemented without detrimental effects on public safety. PLGDPs represent a promising new component to broader gun violence prevention efforts.

About the author

Angela Hawken

Vice Dean for Research and Professor, School of Government & Policy

Angela Hawken is dedicated to interdisciplinary, practitioner-centered partnerships with state and local agencies and nonprofits to implement and test policies, practices, and new technologies.