Reformative Changes: A Comparative Analysis of the Implementation of the Detention Risk Assessment Instrument

Abstract

This research study analyzes the new Detention Risk Assessment tool implemented in Snohomish County’s Juvenile Detention Center. Through utilization of both quantitative and qualitative methodology this cross-sectional study suggests the new tool’s future effectiveness in reducing secure confinement of youth and eliminating disproportionality among youth of color. The findings highlight that although changes have been detected in the data they are still not as significant due to the new DRAI still being in its infancy. Recommendations are provided for future assessment to test the DRAI’s effectiveness in reducing the override rates and elimination of discrepancies in data collection for youth of color.