Engaging the Community in Support of Bail Reform Efforts in Los Angeles County

As part of Los Angeles County Probation Department’s efforts towards bail reform, the department is exploring initiatives that have been chosen to receive funds for a pilot program. To help the county with this initiative, LAC Probation needs to revamp its operations to provide varying levels of pretrial assessments and post-release services, including community-based mental health and housing assistance to people who have been arrested and are awaiting trial.

To support this work, LAC Probation is partnering with FUSE executive fellow Shadeequa Smith to engage and collaborate with community stakeholders regarding the development and provision of services for pretrial clients. While helping to implement a pilot, she will communicate program updates with internal and external stakeholders. Additionally, she is assisting with the development of a final report that will outline efforts, measure engagement, and present successes and challenges. As a result, LAC Probation plans to help justice-involved individuals gain access to services that will allow them to remain in the community while awaiting trial.