Hon. Alberto Gonzales and Hon. Loretta E. Lynch
From the Chairs
In late July, the Commission set out to assess the impact of COVID-19 on the criminal justice system. Our goals were to identify the most effective measures to contain the coronavirus and produce an agenda of long-term policy changes to better balance public health and public safety. Since then, COVID-19 has continued its deadly advance. As we release this report, tens of thousands of new cases are surfacing daily nationwide. Despite the formidable challenge posed by this viral foe, we believe that lessons learned during the pandemic can help Americans reshape our criminal justice system into one that is both fairer and more effective. It is our collective responsibility to not just tame COVID-19, but to use knowledge acquired through this arduous journey to remedy problems that have long plagued the administration of justice in this country.
"It is our collective responsibility to not just tame this pandemic, but to use knowledge acquired through our journey to remedy problems that have plagued the system for far too long."
Hon. Loretta E. Lynch
The recommendations outlined here reflect that imperative. Approved unanimously by Commissioners, they rest upon a foundation of facts, data, and the experience of individuals battling the coronavirus in law enforcement, the courts, correctional facilities, and community-based organizations. Through oral and written testimony, these individuals provided the Commission with vital input that vividly illuminated the havoc wrought by COVID-19, including the dreadful toll in human lives. We believe these recommendations are not just achievable, but also capable of producing transformative change. And while we are realistic about the challenges ahead, we are also cautiously optimistic. That optimism is fueled in part by the inspiring commitment demonstrated by our fellow Commissioners, whose expertise and wisdom were not just critical to this effort, but also will continue to shape policy and practice for the better going forward.
"Fundamental changes often follow a crisis. Let's take this moment to make transformative, enduring improvements for the benefit of all Americans."
Hon. Alberto Gonzales
As the Commission concludes its work, several vaccines are on the horizon and our world has reason to hope the worst of this pandemic will soon be behind us. COVID-19 has tested all of us in unprecedented ways, and has left a painful imprint in all corners of the criminal justice landscape. In honor of its victims, let us take full advantage of this moment to ensure our post-pandemic system is better able to balance health, safety, and justice for the benefit of all.
Hon. Alberto Gonzales
Commission Co-Chair Former U.S. Attorney General Dean, Belmont University College of Law
Hon. Loretta Lynch
Commission Co-Chair Former U.S. Attorney General Partner, Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, LLP
