Lessons from Two Randomized Experiments in Criminal Justice Settings

Abstract

Experiments are known to be powerful tools in assessing the effectiveness of interventions. Notwithstanding this knowledge, randomized field trials have been little used in criminal justice settings. The researchers discuss their experiences implementing two experiments: one in a courthouse and the other in a police agency. Despite the different settings, common problems surfaced in both randomized field trials. The authors discuss obstacles faced in implementing and running experiments and suggest some strategies for avoiding these problems. It is the researchers' hope that such a candid discussion will help others to design and implement stronger experiments.