Ensuring the Quality, Credibility, and Relevance of U.S. Justice Statistics

This comprehensive report delves into the critical evaluation of U.S. justice statistics, emphasizing the need for their quality, credibility, and relevance. Produced by a panel of experts under the auspices of the National Research Council, the document examines the operational frameworks and methodologies of the Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS), an essential component in understanding crime and justice in the United States.

By analyzing current practices and making recommendations for improvements, the report aims to enhance the reliability of the data that informs policy-making and public perception of the justice system. It tackles the challenges faced by the BJS, advocating for advancements in data collection and dissemination to ensure that justice statistics serve as a trustworthy foundation for understanding crime trends and their implications on society.