Part 4/9:
This system places enormous discretion in the hands of prosecutors, whose decisions can dramatically alter lives. Recognizing their influence opens the door to meaningful reform, especially as a growing social movement and bipartisan political consensus question the efficacy of mass incarceration.
Electing Reform: Local Leaders Making a Difference
The key to reshaping the criminal justice system lies largely at the community level. Bazelon highlights several shining examples of district attorneys (DAs) elected on reform platforms, committed to ending mass incarceration and promoting fairness.