9th Circuit Solicitor's Office Innovative Prosecution

The proposed project aims to implement a rigorous case review process, or "screening," in the Ninth Circuit Solicitor's office in Charleston and Berkeley Counties, South Carolina. The goal is to improve public safety, increase office efficiency, reduce racial disparities, and address the backlog of cases resulting from court closures during the COVID-19 pandemic. The proposed screening process will involve an experienced prosecutor reviewing low-level cases and making decisions on whether to dismiss, divert, or pursue the case. As part of the screening process, our office will provide feedback to police to help deter low-quality policing practices.