Ending Mass Incarceration in Action in a Conservative Era: Inside New York City's and LA's plan for Historic Reductions in the use of Jail

Ending mass incarceration in action in a conservative era

Join us for a thought-provoking discussion with Michael Jacobson, Director of the City University of New York (CUNY) Institute for State and Local Governance, exploring how major US cities are working towards significant reductions in the use of jail.

The United States incarcerates a higher proportion of its population than any other country. In this talk, Michael will examine how New York City and Los Angeles have developed ambitious plans to address mass incarceration, including proposals to close major jail facilities such as Rikers Island and Men’s Central Jail. The session will explore the political, social and economic challenges involved, as well as the practical steps required to deliver meaningful reform.

Drawing on his extensive experience in academia and public service, Michael will offer insights into how policy, practice and community action can come together to drive real-world change in the criminal legal system.

The discussion will be introduced by Professor Nigel South (Criminology).

About the speaker

Michael Jacobson is the founding Executive Director of the Institute for State and Local Governance (ISLG) at the City University of New York. He has led the organisation’s growth into a multidisciplinary team working across criminal justice reform, public policy and community-based initiatives.

With over 20 years of government service alongside a distinguished academic career, he has held senior roles including New York City Correction Commissioner and Probation Commissioner, and previously served as President of the Vera Institute of Justice. He is also Professor of Sociology at the CUNY Graduate Center and author of Downsizing Prisons: How to Reduce Crime and End Mass Incarceration.

How to join us

All are welcome.

This event is open to all. To register your interest or ask questions, please email humanrightscentre@essex.ac.uk