Reading the recent police productivity review, the government response, the National Police Chiefs Council response, and considering the recent private prosecution of a burglar in London who was shoplifting in a well-known large retail outlet, raises some questions about why the government and the police always think the answer is to throw money at a problem, often utilising the newest generation of technology or approach. The persistent challenges within the criminal justice system seem to provoke a default response from these bodies to increase funding.
While additional resources are crucial, the construction of modern crime and societal expectations calls for a more nuanced approach. Systems thinking, with its ability to understand and address the complexities of the criminal justice system, emerges as a powerful tool. It offers a holistic approach that acknowledges the interdependencies within the system, producing innovative and sustainable solutions. This potential for positive change should inspire hope and optimism in our collective ability to reform the criminal justice system.
The criminal justice system is a complex network of policing, prosecutors, defenders and the broader judiciary. Each component influences and is influenced by the others. For instance, prosecutorial decisions directly affect policing strategies and vice versa, as demonstrated in the identified prosecution of the burglar in London — who is the first to be jailed by private prosecution.
The Crown Prosecution Service may say we can't prosecute without substantial and compelling evidence of a person's guilt. Therefore, this translates to policing, and if there's no clear and compelling evidence, as shown in the recent shoplifting case, they will not investigate. By understanding these interdependencies, policymakers can create more coordinated and effective strategies that address the root causes of crime and the criminal justice system's response rather than merely managing its symptoms.
The siloed nature of the criminal justice system often prevents sharing insights and best practices that could lead to better outcomes. Systems thinking compels us to look beyond the immediate problems and consider the underlying causes. This understanding of the system's complexities should enlighten and inform our approach to criminal justice reform. That the police are not driven by targets or the policies of the Crown Prosecution Service, and that prosecutors are not driven by time management and target culture.
In a world where social dynamics and criminal behaviours continually evolve, the criminal justice system must be capable of adapting. Systems thinking promotes an adaptive approach, where strategies are continuously evaluated and modified based on their effectiveness and changing conditions. Immediate fixes might be considered effective but often fail to produce lasting results. Systems thinking advocates for long-term planning that considers the future implications of current decisions. This approach ensures that solutions are effective in the short term and sustainable over time.
Applying systems thinking in the criminal justice system shifts the focus from piecemeal solutions to holistic reforms. It requires a cultural shift within governmental and policing bodies to prioritise continuous learning, adaptation, and collaboration.
By embracing this approach, we can develop policies and practices that are not only just and fair but also effective and resilient. This transformative shift is not merely beneficial; addressing the complexities of crime and justice in the 21st century is necessary. This perspective challenges us to rethink traditional approaches and strive for a criminal justice system that truly serves society's needs, emphasising prevention and fairness. The future of criminal justice reform lies in our ability to think systemically, act collaboratively and not just throw money at it.
Professor Tony Blockley is Head of Criminology, Investigation and Policing at Leeds Trinity University.