Task Force Has 31 Recommendations To Improve Criminal Justice System

The Champaign County Racial Justice Task Force has 31 recommendations for the county to improve racial disparity in the local criminal justice system. 

The task force recommendations cover community engagement, police practices, pretrial jail confinement, fees and costs, restorative justice, juvenile justice and housing.

Some highlights include having community leaders communicate through many forms of media, not just print and electronic journalism.

The task force also wants police departments to review hiring practices for diversity, and increase multicultural awareness programs for officers.

The Champaign County Racial Justice Task Force will present its report to the Champaign County Board on Nov. 14, and the public is invited to a public meeting to discuss the report on Nov. 30, at the Champaign Public Library.

The county board appointed the task force in February 2016.