Criminal Justice
Project Description
This project focuses on researching the history, efficacy, and impacts of Truth-In-Sentencing (TIS) in Illinois. Starting in 1998, Truth-In-Sentencing Laws have put restrictions on the time inmates can earn off of their sentence for good behavior and program participation. We are partnering with Restore Justice, a non-profit centered around criminal justice reform advocacy, to create an informative overview of TIS for website publication. We are particularly interested in the before-and-after of the implementation of TIS laws. Our methodology includes literature review, public data analysis, and interviews. Through stories of those impacted as well as deeper insight into state-wide data, we are working with our partner to support future legislation that reforms strict sentencing laws.