Repairing the harm caused by arrest: A mixed-methods evaluation of a restorative justice diversion program

Abstract

Abstract Research has yet to establish whether restorative justice can rebuild relationships between communities and the police. The current study examines a novel diversion program centred around police officer and arrestee restorative justice conferences. The two-year evaluation uses interviews with police officers and arrestees and surveys of arrestees to assess participants’ perceptions of the program and each other. Both groups were satisfied with the program and highly supported its continuation. Participants recognized the feelings or situations of others and humanized them. Both groups reported intentions to change their behaviours in future encounters, with officers intending to improve communication and arrestees discussing avoidance. Arrestees maintained neutral or somewhat positive perceptions of police. Arrestees in the second year had more positive perceptions of legitimacy, police interactions, and procedural justice than protesters arrested in year one. The results suggest that conferences could be a promising approach for agencies seeking to rebuild strained police–community relations.